8.4 Can You Drink My Cup?
The True Meaning of Discipleship: Power through Service

Read Mark 10:32–45. In what ways do these verses demonstrate the disciples’ persistent ignorance, not only regarding Jesus’ mission but also about what it means to follow Him?

In Mark 10:32–45, the disciples’ persistent ignorance regarding the true nature of Jesus’ mission and the requirements of discipleship is evident. Jesus openly speaks about His impending suffering, death, and resurrection—events central to His mission. Yet, the disciples seem unable or unwilling to grasp the depth and significance of what Jesus is sharing. Their thoughts are still influenced by ideas of power and glory, as demonstrated by James and John’s request to sit at Jesus’ right and left in His glory.

This request reveals that despite their proximity to Jesus, the disciples are still driven by human ambitions. They seek honor and status without understanding that following Jesus is not about power and fame but about suffering, humility, and service. Jesus uses this opportunity to remind them of the true nature of His Kingdom: in God’s realm, greatness is defined by being a servant, and the highest honor is found in giving one’s life for others.

Jesus challenges James and John to consider whether they are prepared to drink His cup and be baptized with His baptism, meaning to share in the suffering and sacrifices His path entails. Their swift agreement shows that they do not fully comprehend the depth of Jesus’ question. They are unaware that true discipleship involves suffering and sacrifice—something they will only come to understand through their own painful experiences later.

The reaction of the other disciples, who become indignant at James and John’s request, shows that they too have not yet grasped what it means to follow Jesus. They are still caught up in a mindset of competition rather than learning the lesson of humility and service.

Jesus corrects their misconceptions by teaching them a profound lesson: in the Kingdom of God, power is not used for personal gain but to elevate and bless others. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of this, giving His life as a ransom for many. This teaching is central to understanding Christian discipleship: it is not about seeking earthly honors but about serving others and being willing to walk the path of suffering and sacrifice that Jesus exemplified.

This passage calls us to examine our own ambitions and reframe our understanding of greatness and discipleship in light of Jesus’ example. It reminds us that true greatness lies in serving others and that following Jesus often involves challenges and sacrifices that ultimately lead to true fulfillment and honor.

What does it mean for a Christian to be a “servant” to others? How can you apply this principle in your daily interactions with people?

For a Christian, being a “servant” to others means emulating Jesus’ life and teachings by selflessly serving the well-being of others. This principle is central to Christian discipleship and manifests in various aspects of daily life:

1. Selflessness and Humility:

   • Being a servant means putting others’ needs above our own. In everyday life, this can involve sacrificing personal desires to help others or bring them joy. Simple acts such as spending time with a friend in need or actively supporting those who are struggling are expressions of selflessness.

2. Active Assistance and Support:

   • A servant seeks practical ways to help others. This might include assisting a colleague with work without expecting anything in return, supporting a neighbor with everyday tasks, or volunteering in community or charitable projects.

3. Compassionate and Respectful Communication:

   • A servant’s heart is evident in how we speak to and treat others. This means listening patiently, showing understanding and compassion, and treating everyone with respect and dignity, especially those who may be overlooked or marginalized.

4. Fostering Community and Unity:

   • A servant promotes community and collaboration. This could be through small gestures, such as including people in conversations who might otherwise be excluded, or building bridges between individuals with differing opinions. It’s about being a peacemaker in our surroundings.

5. Practicing Forgiveness and Grace:

   • A servant forgives quickly and holds no grudges. This reflects Jesus’ heart, who calls us to forgive others as He has forgiven us. In daily life, this means not being resentful but actively nurturing relationships and prioritizing love over anger.

6. Setting an Example:

   • A servant lives in a way that inspires others to serve as well. This involves demonstrating that true happiness and fulfillment come from giving rather than receiving. Our lives should show that serving others is not just a duty but a privilege.

7. Prayer and Spiritual Support:

   • A servant prays for others and offers spiritual support when desired. This could mean praying for friends, family, or even strangers, or providing biblical wisdom and encouragement to those in need.

Overall, being a servant means actively living out God’s love each day by selflessly meeting the needs of others, seeing and responding to their needs, and always keeping Jesus’ example in mind. This requires awareness, dedication, and a willingness to put others first to serve and visibly manifest God’s Kingdom on earth.

The connection between the lesson “Can You Drink the Cup I Drink?” and our daily lives and faith is profound and practical. Here are some key points that highlight this connection:

1. Understanding Power through Service:

   • Jesus’ teaching that true greatness lies in serving challenges us to reassess our daily interactions and relationships. In everyday life, this means focusing not on gaining power or recognition but on how we can serve others. This might involve using our positions in family, work, or community to help and uplift others rather than seeking personal advantage.

2. Accepting Suffering as Part of Discipleship:

   • Jesus made it clear that discipleship often involves suffering and sacrifice, symbolized by the “cup” He drank. For us, this means being prepared to face challenges and sacrifices associated with living faithfully to Christ. This could involve making tough decisions, forgoing personal gains, or remaining steadfast in faith even when it is costly.

3. Practicing Humility and Selflessness:

   • The story reminds us that following Jesus requires humility and selflessness. In daily life, this could involve focusing not only on our own needs but also on the needs of others, opening our hearts to those around us, and actively seeking ways to serve them.

4. Overcoming a Competitive Spirit:

   • The reaction of the other disciples reveals the tendency towards competition and the desire for status in all of us. Jesus calls us to overcome this mindset and live in cooperation and peace. In practice, this might mean rejoicing in others’ successes and offering support rather than competing, and fostering an environment of encouragement.

5. Adopting an Eternal Perspective:

   • Jesus reminds us that true rewards are found not in this life but in the age to come. This perspective helps us remain patient and view our decisions and actions in light of eternity. It encourages us to persevere through difficult times, believing that our service and sacrifices are valued by God and rewarded in the future.

Overall, this lesson calls us to integrate the principles of humility, service, and self-sacrifice into our daily lives. It challenges us to live out our discipleship by focusing not on worldly power or recognition but on loving and serving others. This approach leads not only to a deeper relationship with God but also to a life that inspires others and makes God’s Kingdom visible.

The true measure of greatness lies not in power or fame but in how we serve others. Today is an opportunity to live in humility and love by putting the needs of others before our own.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-teaching-disciples-part-2-8-4-can-you-drink-my-cup-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 21, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 22

¹ And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,

² The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,

³ And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.

⁴ Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.

⁵ But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:

⁶ And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.

⁷ But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.

⁸ Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy.

⁹ Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.

¹⁰ So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.

¹¹ And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:

¹² And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.

¹³ Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

¹⁴ For many are called, but few are chosen.

¹⁵ Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk.

¹⁶ And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.

¹⁷ Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar, or not?

¹⁸ But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites?

¹⁹ Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a penny.

²⁰ And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?

²¹ They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.

²² When they had heard these words, they marvelled, and left him, and went their way.

²³ The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him,

²⁴ Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.

²⁵ Now there were with us seven brethren: and the first, when he had married a wife, deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his brother:

²⁶ Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh.

²⁷ And last of all the woman died also.

²⁸ Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her.

²⁹ Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.

³⁰ For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.

³¹ But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying,

³² I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.

³³ And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine.

³⁴ But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together.

³⁵ Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,

³⁶ Master, which is the great commandment in the law?

³⁷ Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

³⁸ This is the first and great commandment.

³⁹ And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

⁴⁰ On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

⁴¹ While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them,

⁴² Saying, What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The son of David.

⁴³ He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying,

⁴⁴ The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?

⁴⁵ If David then call him Lord, how is he his son?

⁴⁶ And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Matthew Chapter 22 is a central chapter that describes various encounters and discussions between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time. It begins with a parable about the kingdom of heaven and moves on to a series of controversial questions directed at Jesus in an attempt to entrap Him. This chapter offers deep insights into the nature of the kingdom of God, the true meaning of faith, and the identity of Christ.

Commentary:

The chapter begins with the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, in which Jesus symbolizes God’s invitation to humanity to partake in the heavenly feast. The original guests who reject the king’s offer represent those who spurn God’s invitation. The punishment for their rejection and the subsequent call to invite everyone, both good and bad, illustrates the inclusivity of the kingdom of heaven. The guest without wedding clothes serves as an image of those who accept God’s invitation but fail to bring the necessary inner transformation and preparation.

The following question about paying taxes is an attempt to entangle Jesus in a political conflict. Jesus exposes the hypocrisy of His questioners by emphasizing the separation of worldly and divine authority: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This response demonstrates Jesus’ deep understanding of justice and establishes a clear distinction between obligations to governmental authority and to God.

In the discussion about the resurrection, Jesus exposes the Sadducees, who deny the resurrection, by revealing their ignorance of the Scriptures and the power of God. He makes it clear that life after death is not comparable to earthly life and that God is a God of the living, thereby reinforcing the hope of resurrection.

When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus answers that love for God and love for one’s neighbor are the central tenets of all commandments. This response summarizes the entire law and the prophets and emphasizes the fundamental importance of love in faith.

Finally, Jesus challenges the Pharisees with a question about the identity of the Messiah. Their inability to answer reveals their lack of understanding of Christ’s true nature, who is not only the son of David but also his Lord.

Summary:

Matthew 22 is a chapter rich with profound teachings and confrontations that reveal the essence of the kingdom of heaven, true piety, and the identity of Jesus. Through the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, God’s invitation to all people is made clear, along with the necessity of a proper response to this invitation. Jesus answers the questions of the Pharisees and Sadducees with wisdom and revelation, exposing their ignorance and false motives. The emphasis on love for God and one’s neighbor as the greatest commandment highlights the essence of the Christian faith. The chapter concludes with the revelation that Jesus is more than just a descendant of David—He is the Lord Himself.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 56—Blessing the Children

This chapter is based on Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17.

Read online here

 

Commentary

The chapter “Blessing the Children” highlights one of the most touching scenes in Jesus’ life, where He demonstrates His special love and affection for the smallest among us. This event is not only an expression of Jesus’ affection for children but also a powerful symbol of the appreciation and place they hold in the kingdom of God.

In the context of the Jewish society of that time, where children were often viewed as the property of their parents rather than as independent individuals with spiritual significance, Jesus’ actions were revolutionary. The disciples, who attempted to dismiss the mothers with their children, likely believed that Jesus’ mission was too important to be interrupted by such seemingly trivial concerns. However, Jesus made it clear that these “trivial” matters are of utmost importance in the kingdom of God. His words, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16), reflect a profound truth: Children embody the kind of innocence, openness, and trust that adults should also strive for in their faith.

The incident also underscores the far-reaching significance of Jesus’ blessing. The mothers who brought their children to Him did so in hope of divine grace and protection for their little ones. Jesus did not disappoint these expectations. Instead, He blessed the children not only physically but spiritually, providing the mothers with great comfort and hope. This blessing was not just a simple gesture but a profound affirmation that their children are valuable in God’s eyes and that their efforts to raise them in faith are supported and blessed by God Himself.

The commentary also highlights the responsibility of parents to raise their children in the Christian faith. This responsibility is portrayed not merely as a parental duty but as a sacred calling, where parents act as instruments of God. By leading their children to Christ, they help lay the foundation for a life of faith and grace. Parents are to open their children’s hearts to the truths of the Gospel and teach them in ways that are understandable to them. The image of parents as “gardeners,” nurturing the young plants of their children with love and care, is a powerful metaphor that describes the fragility and potential of the child’s soul.

Jesus’ interaction with the children also shows us how we should approach children today. It is a reminder that children should not only be seen as future members of the church but as current, valuable members of God’s community. Their spiritual education begins not only when they reach adulthood but from their earliest years. Therefore, it is the responsibility of parents, teachers, and the entire Christian community to shape these young hearts, encourage them, and guide them to Christ.

Furthermore, it is comforting to see that Jesus’ care and love for children extend beyond that time. The commentary makes it clear that even today, Jesus knows the concerns and struggles of mothers and supports them in their task of raising their children in faith. His love and understanding for the trials and challenges of parenthood are a comforting thought for all who seek support and encouragement in raising their children.

Overall, this chapter provides a profound reflection on the significance of blessing children in the Christian faith and the central role that children play in the kingdom of God. It is a call to all who bear responsibility for children to raise them with love and with an eye towards their spiritual development, and it serves as a reminder that Jesus still holds the same love and affection for the smallest among us today as He did then.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 57—“One Thing Thou Lackest”

This chapter is based on Matthew 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23.

Read online here

 

Commentary

This chapter describes the deeply moving encounter between Jesus and a young man known in the Gospels as the rich young ruler. It is a story that speaks not only to the heart but also to the mind, as it addresses central issues of discipleship, obedience, and devotion to God. The encounter reveals the difficulty Jesus presents to the young man: the call to total self-denial and dedication to God in exchange for eternal life.

The rich young ruler symbolizes many people who earnestly seek spiritual fulfillment and the kingdom of God but are held back by the worldly things they hold dear. His desire to gain eternal life is genuine and profound, as evidenced by his urgent approach to Jesus, kneeling before Him, and asking his pressing question. However, when Jesus reveals the true cost of eternal life, the inner struggle of the young man becomes apparent.

Jesus asks him to sell his wealth and give the money to the poor to gain treasure in heaven. This request is not a general rule Jesus sets for all believers but a specific test for this young man. Jesus recognizes that his heart is attached to his possessions and shows him that true discipleship requires letting go of all worldly securities and attachments. It is not merely about relinquishing material wealth but about the willingness to give up anything that keeps the heart from serving God.

The tragedy of this story lies in the young man’s reaction. He is sad because he is not willing to pay the high price Jesus demands. His wealth is too precious to him, and thus he chooses not to follow Jesus. This decision reveals a profound truth: even the best intentions and the most sincere desire for God can be overwhelmed by love for the things of this world.

Jesus’ call to give up everything and follow Him is an invitation to find true freedom in total devotion to God. It is a call that still reaches out today to anyone who seeks eternal life. The story of the rich young ruler shows that the path to God involves the cross of self-denial, and that true fulfillment and eternal life can only be attained if one is willing to leave all earthly things behind.

This incident serves as a reminder that worldly wealth and earthly securities cannot compare with the treasure of heaven. It is a call to reflect on the things that may be hindering us from true discipleship. Whatever our “one thing that we lack” may be, it stands between us and complete communion with God. The rich young ruler had a choice, and that choice also lies before us: Will we be willing to give up everything for Christ, or will we, like him, leave sadly because the worldly things are too important to us?

Jesus’ behavior in this story is also a lesson for all who are engaged in pastoral care. He meets the young man with love and compassion, even though he conveys a harsh truth. His love is not sentimental but demands the truth and the best for the person, even if it means that the path is painful. This approach should also guide those who accompany others on their journey to God.

Ultimately, the story of the rich young ruler shows that following Jesus requires radical decisions. It is a call to total dedication, the renunciation of all idols, and the acceptance of the cross. However, the reward Jesus promises is incomparable: eternal life and the treasure in heaven that far surpasses any earthly joy and security.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/21-08-2024-matthew-chapter-22-believe-his-prophets/