September 1, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 5

¹ And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes.

² And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,

³ Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains:

⁴ Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him.

⁵ And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.

⁶ But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him,

⁷ And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.

⁸ For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.

⁹ And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.

¹⁰ And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.

¹¹ Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

¹² And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.

¹³ And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.

¹⁴ And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.

¹⁵ And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid.

¹⁶ And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.

¹⁷ And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.

¹⁸ And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.

¹⁹ Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.

²⁰ And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.

²¹ And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him: and he was nigh unto the sea.

²² And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet,

²³ And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.

²⁴ And Jesus went with him; and much people followed him, and thronged him.

²⁵ And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,

²⁶ And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

²⁷ When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.

²⁸ For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.

²⁹ And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

³⁰ And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?

³¹ And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?

³² And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.

³³ But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.

³⁴ And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

³⁵ While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?

³⁶ As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.

³⁷ And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.

³⁸ And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.

³⁹ And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.

⁴⁰ And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.

⁴¹ And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.

⁴² And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with a great astonishment.

⁴³ And he charged them straitly that no man should know it; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

The fifth chapter of the Gospel of Mark recounts two remarkable miracles performed by Jesus. First, he frees a man from an incurable state of possession, and then he heals two women—one suffering from a long-term illness and another who is believed to be dead. These narratives showcase Jesus’ power over evil, sickness, and death, highlighting that faith in him brings salvation and healing. This chapter offers deep insights into the nature of faith and the mercy of God.

Commentary:

Mark 5 is a powerful testament to Jesus’ authority and the transformative power of faith. The story of the possessed man illustrates that no situation is too hopeless for Jesus to intervene. The people’s reaction to the miracle—fear and the request for Jesus to leave—raises questions about their willingness to engage with the divine, especially when it disrupts their familiar lives.

The healing of the woman with the issue of blood and the raising of Jairus’ daughter emphasize that faith plays a central role in one’s relationship with Jesus. Both women—one through her trust and the other through her father’s intercession—experience healing and life through faith. These stories encourage us to trust in God’s actions, even when circumstances seem hopeless.

Overall, this chapter underscores the profound significance of faith in Jesus and his ability to overcome any form of suffering. It invites us to reflect on these miracles and examine our own readiness to trust Jesus and welcome him into our lives.

Summary:

The chapter begins with Jesus and his disciples encountering a possessed man in the region of the Gerasenes. The man, tormented by many demons, is freed when Jesus commands the demons to enter a herd of pigs, which then plunge into the sea. The people of the region are frightened and ask Jesus to leave. The healed man wishes to follow Jesus, but he is instructed instead to proclaim God’s grace in his homeland.

Next, Jesus encounters a large crowd, including a synagogue leader named Jairus, whose daughter is near death. On the way to Jairus’ house, Jesus is touched by a woman who has suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years. Through her faith, she is immediately healed. Despite receiving news that Jairus’ daughter has died, Jesus urges Jairus to believe. He then raises the girl from the dead.

 

 

 

 

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/1-09-2024-mark-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/

In this episode, join Pastor Ted Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, for part two of his discussion on Chapter 36 of The Great Controversy by Ellen White. Explore the urgent warnings this chapter makes about the growing deceptions and the peril of neglecting God’s Word.

Read The Great Controversy by Ellen White at https://greatcontroversyproject.org/.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-chapter-36-pt-2-liberty-of-conscience-threatened-pastor-ted-wilson/

9.7 Questions

1.Reflect on the significance of Jesus cleansing the temple. How could this principle be applied to our church today? How should such a cleansing take place?

The cleansing of the temple by Jesus is a powerful symbol of restoring holiness and purity in worship and the faith community. This event shows that Jesus had a zeal for His Father’s house and would not tolerate the desecration of the sacred space or the true purpose of worship by worldly or corrupt practices.

Application to the Church Today:

1. Restoration of Focus on the Essentials: In today’s church, “cleansing the temple” means refocusing on what faith is truly about—worshiping God, proclaiming His Word, and fostering Christian fellowship. Any practices that dilute this focus or turn the church into a venue for economic or political interests should be reconsidered and removed.

2. Examination of Hearts and Motivations: Such cleansing starts with the hearts of the believers. It’s essential to examine our own motives and actions to ensure they align with Christ’s teachings. The church, as a community, should regularly reflect on its mission and practices to ensure they honor God and serve people.

How Should Such a Cleansing Take Place?

1. Prayer and Repentance: The first step to genuine cleansing is prayer for God’s guidance and acknowledging our own faults and sins. Repentance involves turning away from wrong ways and striving to follow God’s will.

2. Return to Biblical Teachings: The church should base its teachings and practices on the Bible. All activities and programs should be grounded in biblical principles and aim to draw people closer to God.

3. Encouragement of Personal Holiness: A cleansed church consists of cleansed individuals. Members should be encouraged to live lives of personal holiness that reflect God’s love, grace, and purity.

4. Transparency and Accountability: In practical matters like finances, leadership, and decision-making, the church should be transparent and accountable to prevent abuse and corruption.

The cleansing of the temple reminds us that the church is a sacred space dedicated solely to God. Such cleansing requires courage, determination, and a firm belief that God deserves the honor and worship that is rightfully His.

2.In the Gospels, Jesus frequently refers to the Holy Scriptures and their fulfillment. What does this tell us about their central importance in the faith? Why must we firmly reject any attempt to undermine the authority of the Holy Scriptures, particularly the idea that the Scriptures are merely human notions of God, of what God is like, and how He acts?

Jesus’ repeated references to the Holy Scriptures in the Gospels underscore their central importance in the faith. Jesus not only quoted Scripture to support His teachings but also fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that the Scriptures possess divine authority and continuity. This reveals several important aspects of the role of the Holy Scriptures in the faith:

1. The Holy Scriptures as God’s Revelation: The Bible is not merely a historical or moral document but the revelation of God Himself. It contains God’s Word, revealing His will, character, and plans for humanity. Jesus regarded the Scriptures as authoritative and taught that they must be fulfilled because they are the immutable Word of God.

2. The Holy Scriptures as the Foundation of Faith: For Jesus and the early church, Scripture was the basis for teaching, correction, and spiritual life. It serves as a guide for faith and conduct, offering direction in all areas of life.

3. The Immutability of Scripture: Since the Holy Scriptures are God’s Word, they are eternal and unchangeable. Jesus emphasized that not a single letter of Scripture will pass away until all is fulfilled (Matthew 5:18). This highlights the Bible’s permanence and ongoing relevance for all generations.

Why Must We Firmly Reject Any Attempt to Undermine the Authority of the Holy Scriptures?

1. Protection of Truth: Questioning the authority of the Scriptures or viewing them merely as human interpretations of God opens the door to subjective interpretations that can dilute or distort the true message of God. This leads to confusion and error, undermining the unity and integrity of the faith.

2. Loss of Divine Authority: If the Scriptures are seen as just human works, they lose their divine authority. This would undermine the foundation of faith, as the Scriptures would no longer be recognized as the final and binding revelation of God. Faith would then rest on human opinions and views rather than the infallible Word of God.

3. Defense of Faith: The Holy Scriptures are the central tool for defending the Christian faith against false teachings and errors. Undermining their authority weakens Christians’ ability to uphold and proclaim the truth of the Gospel.

Conclusion: The Holy Scriptures are more than just a book; they are the living revelation of God and the foundation of the Christian faith. Any attempt to diminish their authority is a threat to the understanding and practice of the faith. Therefore, we must uphold and firmly defend the divine inspiration and authority of the Scriptures.

3.What is the appropriate boundary between church and state? How is what Jesus taught in Mark 12:13-17 a guideline for this discussion?

In Mark 12:13-17, Jesus is confronted by the Pharisees and Herodians with a question about paying taxes to the Roman Emperor. They ask Him if it is lawful to pay taxes, hoping His answer will get Him into trouble with either the people or the Roman authorities. Jesus wisely replies, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” This answer provides valuable guidance for the discussion about the appropriate boundary between church and state.

1. Distinction Between Secular and Spiritual Responsibilities: Jesus’ response shows that there is a clear distinction between duties to secular authorities and duties to God. The state has the right to levy taxes and enact laws that govern public life. At the same time, our highest loyalty and obedience belong to God, especially in spiritual and moral matters.

2. Acknowledgment of the State’s Legitimate Authority: Jesus affirms that secular authorities have a legitimate role that should be respected. Christians have the responsibility to be good citizens by following laws, paying taxes, and contributing to society, as long as these requirements do not conflict with God’s commands.

3. Priority of Divine Command: While Christians should fulfill their secular duties, Jesus also makes it clear that God’s commands and claims on our lives always take precedence. If the state demands something that goes against God’s commands, we must obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). This shows that the church must maintain its spiritual authority and commitment to God, independent of the state.

Appropriate Boundaries Between Church and State:

1. Autonomy in Spiritual Matters: The church should operate independently in spiritual, moral, and religious matters. The state should not interfere with the church’s teachings, practices, or mission.

2. Cooperation on Social and Ethical Issues: There are areas where the church and state can collaborate to promote the common good, such as social services, education, or ethical issues. This cooperation should always respect the church’s independence in its spiritual beliefs.

3. Limits to State Power: The state should not attempt to control or suppress the conscience or religious beliefs of its citizens. Protecting religious freedom is essential for a healthy relationship between church and state.

Conclusion: Jesus’ teaching in Mark 12:13-17 offers a balanced perspective, emphasizing the necessary separation and interplay between church and state. Christians are called to fulfill their secular responsibilities while maintaining their primary loyalty to God and the commands of Scripture. The church must preserve its independence in spiritual matters, while the state exercises its role in maintaining order and justice.

4.Examine texts that discuss the resurrection. Why is this teaching so central to our faith, especially regarding the state of the dead?

The doctrine of the resurrection is one of the most central and foundational beliefs in Christianity. It is discussed in many biblical texts, particularly in the New Testament. For instance, 1 Corinthians 15:12-22 emphasizes the significance of the resurrection for the Christian faith.

Why is this Teaching Central?

1. Confirmation of Victory Over Death: The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the definitive proof that death has been defeated. Death is not the end, but through Christ, death has been overcome, and eternal life is possible. Without the resurrection, death would remain an undefeated enemy, and faith in Christ would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14).

2. Hope of Eternal Life: The resurrection provides believers with hope for their own life after death. Through Jesus’ resurrection, we have the assurance that we too will be resurrected when He returns (1 Thessalonians 4:14). This hope of new, imperishable life is a central source of strength and comfort in the Christian faith.

3. Connection to Forgiveness of Sins: The resurrection is closely linked to the forgiveness of sins. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the power of sin was broken, and believers can live a new life in Christ. Without the resurrection, forgiveness would be incomplete, as death would still be the ultimate consequence of sin (Romans 4:25).

4. Sign of the New Creation: The resurrection marks the beginning of the new creation that God initiates through Christ. It points to the future restoration of all things when God’s kingdom is fully established. This gives believers a vision of the future where all things are made new (Revelation 21:1-4).

Regarding the State of the Dead: The doctrine of the resurrection provides a clear answer to the fate of the dead. In Christian belief, death is not seen as a final end but as a state of waiting for the resurrection. Those who have died in Christ will rise to enjoy eternal life in God’s presence. Without the hope of resurrection, death would be a final loss, but with this hope, death becomes a transition to eternal life.

Summary: The resurrection is central to Christian faith because it promises eternal life, signifies the defeat of death and sin, and ushers in the new creation. It reassures believers about the ultimate fate of the dead, transforming the concept of death from finality to a hopeful anticipation of eternal life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-jerusalem-controversies-9-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 31, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 4

¹ And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land.

² And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine,

³ Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:

⁴ And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.

⁵ And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:

⁶ But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away.

⁷ And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.

⁸ And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.

⁹ And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

¹⁰ And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.

¹¹ And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:

¹² That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.

¹³ And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?

¹⁴ The sower soweth the word.

¹⁵ And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.

¹⁶ And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;

¹⁷ And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended.

¹⁸ And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,

¹⁹ And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.

²⁰ And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.

²¹ And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?

²² For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.

²³ If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.

²⁴ And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.

²⁵ For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.

²⁶ And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;

²⁷ And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.

²⁸ For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.

²⁹ But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.

³⁰ And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?

³¹ It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:

³² But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.

³³ And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.

³⁴ But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.

³⁵ And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

³⁶ And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

³⁷ And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.

³⁸ And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

³⁹ And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

⁴⁰ And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?

⁴¹ And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Mark Chapter 4 presents a series of parables taught by Jesus to explain the Kingdom of God. These parables offer profound insights into the nature of faith and the challenges faced by the message of the Gospel. In addition to these teachings, the chapter demonstrates Jesus’ power over nature when he calms a storm, revealing his divine authority. Through these stories and parables, Mark provides readers with a comprehensive picture of Jesus’ teachings and identity.

Commentary

The chapter begins with the Parable of the Sower, which represents a central teaching of Jesus about the Kingdom of God. In this parable, the message of God is compared to seeds falling on different types of soil, symbolizing the varying responses of people to the Gospel. Some hearts are like the hard path where the seed has no chance to grow. Others are like rocky ground, where faith sprouts but quickly withers without roots. Then there are those overwhelmed by the “thorns” of life—the worries of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth—which choke the faith. Finally, there is the “good soil,” where faith grows and produces abundant fruit. This parable serves as a powerful image of the challenges and opportunities of faith.

In the section about light and measure, Jesus emphasizes that the message of the Gospel should not remain hidden but should be revealed and shared. This is reflected in the analogy of light placed on a lampstand to be visible to all. Likewise, Jesus stresses that the measure we use to deal with others will also be applied to us. This underscores the importance of justice and generosity in our interactions with others.

The Parable of the Growing Seed illustrates the mysterious and self-sustaining power of the Kingdom of God. The seed grows even though humans do not fully understand how it happens. This image highlights the unstoppable expansion of the Kingdom of God and the role of humans as participants, but not the originators of this growth.

The Parable of the Mustard Seed shows that the Kingdom of God begins small but grows into something great. It is an encouraging image demonstrating how great things can emerge from seemingly insignificant beginnings, a principle that applies to both personal spiritual growth and the spread of the Gospel.

To conclude the chapter, Mark recounts the story of Jesus calming the storm, where Jesus saves his disciples from a dangerous storm. This event demonstrates Jesus’ power over nature and his ability to control even the most frightening forces. It also tests the faith of his disciples, who are overwhelmed by fear despite Jesus’ physical presence. Jesus rebukes them and calls for greater trust.

Summary

Mark Chapter 4 illustrates the nature of the Kingdom of God and the challenges faced by faith through various parables. The Parables of the Sower, the Light, the Growing Seed, and the Mustard Seed offer deep insights into the workings of the Gospel and people’s reactions to it. These teachings are complemented by the dramatic story of Jesus calming the storm, which emphasizes Jesus’ divine authority and the necessity of faith amid trials. Overall, the chapter conveys a powerful image of Jesus’ teachings and divine nature while encouraging readers to trust in God’s work, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/31-08-2024-mark-chapter-4-believe-his-prophets/