13.6 Summary
The Resurrection of Jesus: Hope and Proclamation by the Disciples

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the central event of the Christian faith and forms the core of this lesson. The risen Lord first appeared to women, particularly Mary Magdalene, which enhances the credibility of the account, as women were not highly regarded as witnesses in the society of that time. This fact underscores the authenticity of the resurrection narratives.

The lesson addresses the reactions of the disciples, who were initially marked by unbelief and doubt. Jesus had to rebuke them for their “hardness of heart,” yet through His encounters and the signs of His resurrection, He confirmed the reality of His resurrection. These experiences ultimately transformed the disciples into bold proclaimers of the Gospel.

In the command “Go into all the world” (Mark 16:15), Jesus gives His disciples the universal mandate to spread the Gospel. This command still holds today: every Christian is called to proclaim the message of the resurrection through word and deed. Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20), gives us the assurance that we never have to fulfill this mission alone.

The lesson reminds us that the resurrection of Christ is not just a historical event but a living reality that should shape our faith and daily lives. It provides us with hope, courage, and the strength to boldly proclaim the Gospel—trusting that Jesus is always with us.

The connection between the resurrection of Jesus and our everyday life and faith is profound and influences our daily living in various ways:

1. Hope and Victory Over Death: The resurrection shows us that death is not the end. It gives us hope, even in difficult times, that there is ultimate redemption and new life beyond suffering. This hope encourages us to remain steadfast in our trust in God, even amidst daily challenges.

2. New Beginning and Forgiveness: Jesus’ resurrection means that we can find forgiveness and a new beginning in Him. Each day offers us the opportunity to start anew with God and to be renewed by His grace. This shapes how we deal with our own mistakes and those of others—with forgiveness and love.

3. Responsibility to Proclaim: Jesus has given us the mandate to carry the Gospel “into all the world.” This affects our daily lives because we are called to bear witness through our behavior, words, and actions. The way we interact with others should reflect the love and hope we have found in Christ.

4. Divine Presence in Daily Life: The promise “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20) assures us that we are never alone, no matter what we encounter in daily life. Whether facing difficult decisions, moments of doubt, or times of joy, Jesus’ presence accompanies us and empowers us to act in faith.

5. Courage and Overcoming Doubts: The disciples struggled with doubt and unbelief, even though they had directly encountered Jesus. This lesson shows us that doubt can be a normal part of the faith journey. However, Jesus meets us in our doubts and strengthens us through His presence and fellowship with other believers.

In Summary: The resurrection of Christ gives us daily hope, strength, forgiveness, and the mandate to actively live out our faith. It shapes how we handle challenges, mistakes, and our interactions with others, reminding us that we are never alone but always living in the presence of the risen Lord.

The resurrection of Jesus gives us new hope every day, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, a new beginning and eternal life are possible.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-the-risen-lord-13-6-summary-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 27, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 15

¹ Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.

² And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.

³ And he spake this parable unto them, saying,

⁴ What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?

⁵ And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.

⁶ And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

⁷ I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.

⁸ Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?

⁹ And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

¹⁰ Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

¹¹ And he said, A certain man had two sons:

¹² And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

¹³ And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

¹⁴ And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

¹⁵ And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

¹⁶ And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

¹⁷ And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

¹⁸ I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

¹⁹ And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

²⁰ And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

²¹ And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.

²² But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

²³ And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:

²⁴ For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

²⁵ Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.

²⁶ And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.

²⁷ And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

²⁸ And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.

²⁹ And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:

³⁰ But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

³¹ And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

³² It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Luke chapter 15 is one of the most well-known chapters of the New Testament, which recounts three powerful parables: the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Parable of the Lost Coin, and the Parable of the Prodigal Son. These parables emphasize the central theme of God’s unconditional love and the joy over the repentance of sinners. Jesus directs these stories at the Pharisees and scribes who grumbled about Him dining with sinners. Each parable presents a valuable lesson about forgiveness, grace, and the importance of repentance.

Commentary:

The chapter begins with the Parable of the Lost Sheep. Here, Jesus demonstrates that the shepherd who loses one of his hundred sheep goes to great lengths to find it. He leaves the 99 that are not lost in safety to seek the one that is lost. This illustrates the immense love of God, who cares for each individual soul and does not leave it to perish. The joy of the shepherd who finds the lost sheep is a picture of the heavenly joy when a sinner repents. It reminds us that no one is too lost for God and that He actively seeks those who have strayed from the right path.

The second parable, the Parable of the Lost Coin, further reinforces this message. It tells of a woman who loses one of her ten valuable coins and diligently searches for it until she finds it. Again, great joy follows when she recovers the lost item. This parable underscores God’s attentiveness, even to what seems small and insignificant, and shows that every soul is of immeasurable value.

The third and longest parable, the Parable of the Prodigal Son, vividly illustrates God’s forgiveness. The younger son demands his inheritance, squanders it, and ends up in extreme poverty and despair. When he finally returns repentant to his father, he is not met with punishment or reproach but with open arms and unconditional love. The father symbolizes God, who is ready to receive any sinner who genuinely repents and returns to Him. This parable showcases the depth of divine grace and the great celebration of reunion that takes place in heaven when a sinner returns.

Interestingly, the Parable of the Prodigal Son does not end with the joyous celebration but with the reaction of the older brother, who is angry and jealous of his father’s grace. He sees himself as the “righteous one” who never strayed from the right path and feels it is unfair that his lost brother is treated so generously. Here, the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes is depicted, as they complain about Jesus’ dealings with sinners. However, the father reminds the older son that the return of the lost brother is a cause for joy because he was lost and is now found.

Summary:

Luke chapter 15 is a chapter of joy and hope. Through the Parables of the Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son, Jesus illustrates how precious each individual soul is to God. It highlights God’s infinite grace and the joy in heaven when a sinner repents. These parables teach us that God’s love knows no bounds and that it is never too late to repent and receive forgiveness. At the same time, the chapter admonishes humility and reminds us that we should not judge others but rejoice with God over anyone who finds their way back.

 

 

Introduction:

In Chapter 65, we witness a pivotal event from the life of Jesus, where He once again cleanses the temple of unholy business dealings. This scene highlights the sanctity of the temple as a place of worship and demonstrates Jesus’ commitment to true worship. At the same time, Jesus reveals Himself as the divine King and Judge, fighting against hypocrisy and corruption in the temple, while the Jewish leaders grow increasingly hostile towards Him.

Commentary:

The cleansing of the temple is a powerful symbol of purity and respect in worship. Jesus demonstrates that true worship is not about outward rituals, but about obedience and a sincere heart. By driving out the merchants and healing the sick within the temple, He reveals the contrast between His mission of healing and the greed of the religious leaders. This act of Jesus serves as a profound warning to all believers not to honor God merely through rituals, but through lives that embody love, justice, and compassion. The hypocrisy of the priests, who rejected Jesus’ authority, is an example of how the religious elite can reject spiritual truths.

Summary:

The second cleansing of the temple underscores Jesus’ role as the divine King and Judge, who purifies the temple of corruption and restores it as a place of true worship. His actions show that God values obedience and a sincere heart over ritual sacrifices. The response of the religious leaders, who opposed Him, symbolizes the rejection of divine truth and serves as a serious warning. Jesus’ parables, such as the one about the cornerstone, call for repentance and illustrate that Christ is the central foundation of our faith—the rock upon which we must build.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/27-09-2024-luke-chapter-15-believe-his-prophets/

13.5 Go into All the World
The Mission to Proclaim: Jesus’ Message to All Nations

Read Mark 16:14–20. What did Jesus say to His disciples when He appeared to them, and what do these words mean for us today?

In Mark 16:14–20, Jesus appears to His disciples and initially rebukes them for their unbelief and “hardness of heart” because they did not immediately believe the reports of others about His resurrection. This shows that the struggle with faith is not a new problem but something that even the disciples, who personally experienced Jesus, went through. However, through His presence and the signs of His resurrection, Jesus provides them with the solid foundation upon which their future faith should rest.

Afterward, Jesus gives the disciples the command to carry the gospel to the entire world and proclaim the good news to all of creation. This command also applies to us today: As followers of Jesus, we are called to spread His message of salvation and hope everywhere. It is a universal mission that knows no boundaries.

Jesus also speaks of the signs that will accompany the disciples’ work, such as casting out demons, speaking in new languages, and healing the sick. These signs are evidence of the divine power working through the proclamation of the gospel. However, they are not guarantees that Christians will always be kept safe from danger. Rather, they serve to make God’s power visible in certain moments, as was the case with Paul (Acts 28:3–6). Additionally, the patient perseverance of Christians in difficult times can be a powerful testimony of faith.

After giving the disciples this mission, Jesus ascends into heaven to sit at the right hand of God, the place of highest authority. His ascension marks the final victory over evil, and from there, He continues to work through His followers on earth.

The last verse of Mark 16 is particularly encouraging: “And the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it” (Mark 16:20). This is a promise for us today—we are not alone when we proclaim the gospel. Jesus works with us and confirms His message through signs, both in visible miracles and through the transformed lives of people who respond to His message.

“I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 ESV). What comfort can and should we draw from this promise as we also strive to proclaim the gospel “everywhere”?

Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 ESV), is a source of deep comfort and strength for all who are committed to the mission of proclaiming the gospel. It reminds us that we are never alone, no matter how challenging the circumstances or how great the tasks may seem. Here are some key aspects from which we can draw comfort:

1. Jesus’ Constant Presence: Jesus promises to always be with us—in every moment of our lives. Whether we are in joyful or difficult times, we can be sure that He does not abandon us. This constant presence gives us peace and the confidence that we are not relying solely on ourselves.

2. Strength in Challenges: When we proclaim the gospel, we often face rejection, doubts, or even persecution. Yet the assurance that Jesus is with us gives us the strength to remain steadfast. His presence empowers us when we feel weak or overwhelmed.

3. Encouragement for the Mission: The command to proclaim the gospel “everywhere” can seem overwhelming. However, Jesus’ promise reminds us that He is with us as we undertake this mission. He leads us, gives us wisdom, and opens doors where we see none. We do not have to rely on our own strength or ability but can trust in His guidance.

4. Comfort in Times of Loneliness: Missionary work or sharing the faith can sometimes feel lonely, especially when facing resistance or misunderstanding. However, Jesus’ promise means that we are never truly alone. He is always with us, even when we feel isolated from others.

5. Trust in the Victory: Jesus’ promise extends beyond the present—it points to the “very end of the age.” This gives us the confidence that God’s plan will ultimately be victorious. Our work for the gospel is not in vain, for Christ Himself brings it to completion.

In summary: This promise is not only an assurance for our daily walk but also a source of courage and perseverance. No matter what challenges we face in proclaiming the gospel, we can live with the confidence that Jesus is always with us and accompanies us—until the end of time.

The connection between Jesus’ mission to proclaim the gospel and our everyday life and faith is deep and crucial. Jesus calls us to carry His message of love and salvation everywhere—not just as a formal mission but as a way of life. Here are some important aspects of how this command should shape our daily lives and faith:

1. Living Testimony: Jesus calls us to proclaim the gospel not only through words but also through our behavior and actions. In our daily lives, we are called as followers of Jesus to make the gospel visible through kindness, compassion, and integrity. Every day offers opportunities to express our faith through practical acts of love and service.

2. Courage to Share: Often, we hesitate to share our faith out of fear of rejection or misunderstanding. Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always,” gives us the courage to speak openly about our faith despite these fears. Whether in conversations with colleagues, neighbors, or friends, we are never alone when we share our hope in Christ.

3. Responsibility for the World: The command to proclaim the gospel “everywhere” reminds us that faith is not just a personal matter. It has global implications. Our faith should lead us to a life of responsibility for others and for the world—whether through prayer, financial support of missions, or engagement in our communities.

4. Divine Guidance in Daily Life: Jesus is with us as we proclaim the gospel, which means He also guides us in our daily lives. Whether making decisions in our careers, families, or social environments, we can trust that God leads us and opens doors to fulfill His will.

5. Living Faith Daily: The mission to proclaim the gospel reminds us that our faith is not confined to the church or special moments. It affects our entire lives—our work, relationships, and everyday interactions. Jesus wants to work through us wherever we are.

In summary: Jesus’ mission to carry the gospel to all the world means that our daily lives are a platform for proclaiming our faith. We are called to bear witness through our lives with courage and trust in Jesus’ constant presence. No matter what challenges we encounter in our daily lives, this mission gives our lives meaning and purpose, and we can rely on Jesus to accompany us in everything.

Jesus’ mission to proclaim the gospel is a daily invitation to make hope, love, and faith visible through our lives.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-the-risen-lord-13-5-go-into-all-the-world-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 26, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 14

1 And it came to pass, as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they watched him.

2 And, behold, there was a certain man before him which had the dropsy.

3 And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?

4 And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed him, and let him go;

5 And answered them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day?

6 And they could not answer him again to these things.

7 And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them.

8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;

9 And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.

10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.

11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

12 Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.

13 But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:

14 And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.

15 And when one of them that sat at meat with him heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.

16 Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

17 And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

18 And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused.

20 And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

21 So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

22 And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.

23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

24 For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.

25 And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,

26 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

27 And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.

28 For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

30 Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?

32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.

33 So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

34 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?

35 It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Luke chapter 14 addresses various themes that are crucial for understanding Jesus’ teachings on humility, hospitality, calling, and discipleship. Through healing, parables, and teachings, Jesus reveals the deeper meaning of love, self-denial, and living in the Kingdom of God. Particularly, the challenge of discipleship is emphasized, where Jesus uses clear and sometimes harsh words to highlight to his listeners the costs and sacrifices that come with following him.

Commentary:

The chapter begins with the healing of a man with dropsy on the Sabbath, once again demonstrating that Jesus does not view the sanctity of the Sabbath as a restriction on exercising mercy. He poses a challenging question to the Pharisees about whether it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Their silent response reveals their inability to grasp Jesus’ complete perspective on love and the law. Here, Jesus clarifies that the Sabbath should not be an obstacle to doing good but an opportunity to show God’s compassion.

In the following parables, Jesus teaches about humility and true greatness. The parable of the wedding banquet illustrates that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Jesus emphasizes that those who push forward in life to gain honor often end up in shame, while those who humble themselves are ultimately lifted up. This is a profound lesson on the value of modesty in dealing with others and in the presence of God.

The parable of the great banquet addresses the Kingdom of God and shows how many invited guests decline the invitation due to worldly concerns, thereby rejecting the call. Instead, the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame are invited, demonstrating that God’s Kingdom is open to those willing to accept the invitation. This highlights the theme of God’s universal invitation but also underscores the danger of rejecting it due to worldly priorities and indifference.

Jesus then speaks about the stringent requirements of discipleship. The strong words “whoever does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—cannot be my disciple” do not advocate literal hatred but emphasize the necessity for Christ to be the foremost priority in a disciple’s life. Discipleship requires sacrifice, self-denial, and the willingness to carry one’s own cross. Those who do not completely relinquish everything they have cannot be Jesus’ disciples. These statements illustrate that discipleship is a radical commitment that affects every aspect of one’s life.

Finally, the chapter underscores the importance of perseverance and wisdom in following Christ by using the examples of a man building a tower and a king going to war. In both cases, thorough preparation and consideration are necessary. This emphasizes that discipleship is a well-thought-out decision and should not be undertaken lightly.

Summary:

Luke chapter 14 illuminates how Jesus conveys the fundamental values of humility, mercy, and discipleship. Through the parable of the wedding banquet and teachings on the Sabbath, Jesus reminds us that God does not judge by external worldly standards but by the humility of the heart. He demonstrates that true discipleship requires sacrifice and that everything else in life, including family and possessions, must take a backseat to Christ. The chapter concludes with a clear admonition: following Christ is not an easy path, but those who are willing to embark on this journey will attain eternal life.

 

 

Introduction:

In Chapter 65, we witness a pivotal event from the life of Jesus, where He once again cleanses the temple of unholy business dealings. This scene highlights the sanctity of the temple as a place of worship and demonstrates Jesus’ commitment to true worship. At the same time, Jesus reveals Himself as the divine King and Judge, fighting against hypocrisy and corruption in the temple, while the Jewish leaders grow increasingly hostile towards Him.

Commentary:

The cleansing of the temple is a powerful symbol of purity and respect in worship. Jesus demonstrates that true worship is not about outward rituals, but about obedience and a sincere heart. By driving out the merchants and healing the sick within the temple, He reveals the contrast between His mission of healing and the greed of the religious leaders. This act of Jesus serves as a profound warning to all believers not to honor God merely through rituals, but through lives that embody love, justice, and compassion. The hypocrisy of the priests, who rejected Jesus’ authority, is an example of how the religious elite can reject spiritual truths.

Summary:

The second cleansing of the temple underscores Jesus’ role as the divine King and Judge, who purifies the temple of corruption and restores it as a place of true worship. His actions show that God values obedience and a sincere heart over ritual sacrifices. The response of the religious leaders, who opposed Him, symbolizes the rejection of divine truth and serves as a serious warning. Jesus’ parables, such as the one about the cornerstone, call for repentance and illustrate that Christ is the central foundation of our faith—the rock upon which we must build.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/26-09-2024-luke-chapter-14-believe-his-prophets/