1.There is a difference between giving to the work of the Lord and giving sacrificially. What is the difference and why is it important?

The difference between “giving to the work of the Lord” and “giving sacrificially” lies in the depth and quality of the giving, particularly in terms of intention and the extent of personal sacrifice.

1. Giving to the Work of the Lord: This generally refers to providing financial or other material support for religious purposes or church activities. It can be done regularly, generously, and with a good heart, but it does not necessarily involve a deep personal sacrifice. The giving may come from an abundance and not necessarily entail significant personal denial.

2. Sacrificial Giving: This goes far beyond ordinary giving. Sacrificial giving means giving in a way that involves real personal cost or difficulty. It often involves giving up something essential, whether it be time, money, or other resources. This kind of giving reflects a deeper dedication and a more intense faith, as one is willing to sacrifice personal needs and desires for the greater good or for faith.

Why is the difference important?

The difference is important because sacrificial giving expresses a deeper level of faith and devotion to God and His work. It shows a willingness to go beyond the norm and to place the well-being of the community or the cause of faith above personal needs. In many religious teachings, sacrificial commitment is viewed as a virtue that reflects a higher level of spiritual maturity and trust in God. It is an act of faith that not only shapes one’s character but also supports the work of the Lord in a special way, as it comes from the heart and is associated with a significant measure of selflessness.

2.Why has God not prevented the persecution of His people through the centuries and in the present world? How does the concept of the Great Controversy help us understand the existence of persecution?

The question of why God has not prevented the persecution of His people throughout history and today is profound and complex, touching on themes of theodicy, free will, and the great cosmic conflict between good and evil.

1. Free Will and the Presence of Evil:

God has given humans free will, meaning the ability to make their own choices. This includes the possibility of opposing God and His principles. Persecution often results from individuals who turn against God and persecute those who remain faithful. In a world where evil is in conflict with good, persecution and suffering are part of the reality that arises from the freedom God has granted humanity.

2. The Great Controversy as a Framework:

The concept of the “Great Controversy” (or “Great Conflict”) helps to understand the existence of persecution by framing world history as part of a cosmic conflict between Christ and Satan, between good and evil. In this view, Earth is the battlefield where this conflict unfolds. Persecution is a manifestation of this struggle, with Satan attempting to oppress and destroy God’s people, while God, in His wisdom and power, uses these trials to strengthen the faith and loyalty of His followers.

3. God’s Sovereignty and Purpose:

Although God allows persecution, He is in control of the overall situation. The Bible provides many examples where persecution ultimately results in blessings for God’s people, whether through strengthening faith, spreading the gospel, or revealing God’s power and grace. The suffering and persecution endured by His people are not meaningless; they fit into God’s larger plan for redemption and purification.

4. Testimony and Strength of Faith:

Persecution can also serve to test and strengthen the faith of individuals and communities. Those who suffer persecution often provide a powerful testimony of their faith, which inspires and encourages others. The steadfastness of the persecuted demonstrates the strength of faith and can lead others to turn to God.

5. Hope for the Future Kingdom:

The concept of the Great Controversy reminds us that this world is not the final destination and that the suffering and persecution of this time are temporary. There is hope for a future kingdom of God where justice, peace, and love will prevail. This hope can help believers endure persecution, knowing that God will ultimately achieve victory.

In summary, the Great Controversy provides a perspective where persecution is not meaningless but is part of a larger plan where good ultimately triumphs. The existence of persecution and suffering calls believers to stand firm in faith, to hold onto the hope of God’s ultimate victory, and to serve as a living testimony to their faith.

3.What signs of Christ’s return stand out to you in the world today?

The question of signs of Christ’s return is one that is intensely discussed in many Christian traditions. There are several biblical prophecies that believers interpret as indicators of the imminent return of Christ. Here are some signs that are particularly highlighted in today’s world:

1. Increase in Natural Disasters:

The Bible mentions “earthquakes, famines, and plagues” as signs of the last days (Matthew 24:7). Today, there are reports of an increase in and intensification of natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and wildfires. Many believers see these events as confirmation of biblical predictions.

2. Moral and Social Decay:

2 Timothy 3:1-5 describes the last days as being marked by increasing wickedness, selfishness, materialism, and disdain for the sacred. Many people see today’s society as reflecting a decline in moral values, rising violence, corruption, and the growth of unbelief and godlessness as fulfillment of this prophecy.

3. Persecution of Believers:

Jesus predicted that His followers would face persecution in the last days (Matthew 24:9-10). In many parts of the world today, Christians experience discrimination, persecution, and even martyrdom because of their faith. This ongoing persecution is often seen as a sign of Christ’s imminent return.

4. Globalization and Technological Advances:

The Bible speaks of the possibility of the gospel being preached to the whole world before the end comes (Matthew 24:14). Today’s globalization and advancements in communication technology enable the gospel to be spread faster and further than ever before. Many view these developments as fulfillment of this sign.

5. Global Unrest and Wars:

Jesus also warned of “wars and rumors of wars” (Matthew 24:6) as signs of the end. Ongoing conflicts, terrorism, political instability, and the threat of weapons of mass destruction in today’s world could be seen as fulfillment of these prophecies.

6. Israel and the Middle East:

The role of Israel in biblical prophecy is a central sign for many believers. The re-establishment of Israel as a nation in 1948 and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are often viewed as fulfillment of biblical prophecies that herald the return of Christ.

7. Increase in False Prophets and Heresies:

Matthew 24:24 warns of false prophets and false Christs who will deceive many in the last days. Today, there are numerous religious movements, cults, and teachings that deviate from traditional Christian doctrine and create confusion. This is often interpreted as fulfillment of this sign.

8. Spread of the Gospel:

Another significant sign is the global proclamation of the gospel (Matthew 24:14). Thanks to modern technology and mission efforts, the gospel now reaches nearly every corner of the earth. Many see this worldwide dissemination as a key sign of Christ’s impending return.

These signs are interpreted by many believers as indications that Christ’s return may be near. However, it is important to emphasize that Jesus Himself said that “no one knows the day or the hour” (Matthew 24:36). Christians are therefore called to be watchful and prepared without becoming overly fixated on speculation.

4.Reflect on the state of the dead and the idea that the dead sleep until Christ returns. People close their eyes in death, and what is the next thing they know? How does this understanding help us grasp that for each individual, the return of Christ is always very near?

The concept that the dead sleep until Christ returns offers a profound perspective on death and Christ’s return. When a person dies, they close their eyes in death and are not aware of the passage of time. For them, there is no sense of days, years, or centuries passing between their death and Christ’s return. The next thing they experience is awakening at Christ’s return.

This idea helps us understand that for each person individually, the return of Christ is always very near. Regardless of how much time objectively elapses, the deceased experience the moment of Christ’s return as the next event following their death. For them, it seems as if Christ’s return follows directly after their death, as they do not perceive the period of sleep in the grave.

This perspective emphasizes that Christ’s return is personally very near for every individual, as death and the subsequent awakening in resurrection are essentially connected. This can provide comfort and underscore the urgency of living a life of faith and anticipation for Christ’s return.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-last-days-10-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 7, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 11

¹ And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples,

² And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you: and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him.

³ And if any man say unto you, Why do ye this? say ye that the Lord hath need of him; and straightway he will send him hither.

⁴ And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met; and they loose him.

⁵ And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?

⁶ And they said unto them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go.

⁷ And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him; and he sat upon him.

⁸ And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way.

⁹ And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord:

¹⁰ Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in the highest.

¹¹ And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve.

¹² And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:

¹³ And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.

¹⁴ And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.

¹⁵ And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;

¹⁶ And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.

¹⁷ And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.

¹⁸ And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.

¹⁹ And when even was come, he went out of the city.

²⁰ And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.

²¹ And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.

²² And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.

²³ For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

²⁴ Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

²⁵ And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

²⁶ But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

²⁷ And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders,

²⁸ And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?

²⁹ And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.

³⁰ The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me.

³¹ And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him?

³² But if we shall say, Of men; they feared the people: for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed.

³³ And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Mark 11 describes key events in Jesus’ life that point to his ultimate confrontation with religious leaders and the fulfillment of his messianic mission. The text begins with Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, continues with the cleansing of the temple, and concludes with discussions about his authority. These events highlight the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities and reveal profound spiritual teachings about faith, prayer, and forgiveness.

Commentary:

Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem is traditionally interpreted as a sign of his messianic identity. By riding on a colt, Jesus fulfills the Old Testament prophecy from Zechariah 9:9, which describes the gentle king coming on a donkey. The crowds welcoming him with “Hosanna” and spreading their cloaks and branches before him recognize him as the promised savior, although they might have had different expectations about the nature of his reign.

The cleansing of the temple, where Jesus drives out the sellers and money changers from the sacred area, demonstrates his zeal for the purity of worship. The temple, which was meant to be a house of prayer for all nations, had become a place of profit. This act provokes the religious leaders, who feel increasingly threatened.

The withered fig tree miracle symbolizes judgment on Israel, which was outwardly religious but inwardly fruitless. Jesus uses this opportunity to instruct his disciples about faith: true faith is powerful and produces visible results. The theme of forgiveness is also emphasized—without forgiveness, prayer cannot be effective.

The final confrontation with the religious leaders shows how much Jesus challenges them. They question his authority, but through his counter-question, he cleverly evades their trap while simultaneously exposing their hypocrisy.

Summary:

Mark 11 portrays the events surrounding Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the cleansing of the temple, and the symbolic withering of the fig tree. Jesus reveals his messianic identity and challenges the religious leaders by questioning the state of the temple and the faith of Israel. His teachings emphasize the importance of faith, prayer, and forgiveness, while the tension with religious authorities escalates. These chapters set the stage for the forthcoming dramatic events in Jesus’ life.

 

 

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 60—The Law of the New Kingdom

This chapter is based on Matthew 20:20-28; Mark 10:32-45; Luke 18:31-34.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Chapter 60 highlights the deep spiritual lessons that Jesus taught his disciples on the way to Jerusalem, just before he experienced his suffering and death. In this section, Jesus prepares his disciples for the upcoming events and reveals to them the law of his new kingdom, which fundamentally differs from worldly kingdoms. Instead of seeking power and dominion, Jesus calls his followers to humbly serve and sacrifice themselves for others, thereby attaining true greatness in the kingdom of God.

Commentary:

This chapter offers a powerful reflection on the contrasts between worldly notions of power and the spiritual ideal of service in the kingdom of God. Jesus corrects the ambitions of his disciples, who are still influenced by earthly ideas of a messianic kingdom, by revealing to them the true nature of his reign. His response to John and James, who request privileged places in his kingdom, demonstrates that true greatness in the kingdom of God is not achieved through positions or titles, but through self-sacrifice and service to others.

The teachings Jesus imparts in this chapter are radical and challenge the prevailing societal understanding of power and authority. In a world where rank and influence are often exercised through oppression and control, Jesus shows that true authority lies in the willingness to serve others, even at the cost of one’s own life. This teaching not only shapes the disciples but also forms the foundation of Christian ethics, as practiced in the early Christian communities.

Jesus’ words remind us that the pursuit of power and influence in the worldly sense has nothing to do with the nature of his kingdom. Instead, it is humility, service, and sacrifice that matter in the kingdom of God. This is embodied in the life and death of Jesus himself, who paid the ultimate price to redeem humanity.

Summary:

Chapter 60 describes how, on the way to Jerusalem, Jesus prepares his disciples for his impending suffering and the true character of his kingdom. Despite their hopes for earthly power and honor, Jesus teaches them that true greatness in the kingdom of God is achieved through humility, service, and self-sacrifice. John and James, who seek places of honor in his kingdom, are reminded that such positions are not attained through personal ambition but through suffering and bearing the cross. In a world characterized by power and control, Jesus shows that the principles of his kingdom are based on love and selflessness. These teachings not only shape the disciples but also the early Christian community, which is characterized by a spirit of unity and mutual love.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/7-09-2024-mark-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/