7.5 The Healthy Man in Hell
The Radical Urgency of Avoiding Sin

Read Mark 9:42–50. What do the teachings of Jesus in this passage have in common?

At first glance, Mark 9:42–50 might seem like a collection of loosely connected teachings, but a closer examination reveals a clear thematic link. Jesus uses key terms such as “causes of sin,” “fire,” and “salt” to convey a profound and continuous lesson.

Firstly, Jesus addresses the responsibility toward the “little ones,” referring to new or vulnerable believers. He emphasizes the importance of protecting them from sin by presenting a dramatic scenario: it would be better to be drowned in the sea than to cause one of these little ones to stumble. This exaggeration underscores the seriousness of this responsibility.

Following this, Jesus uses another form of hyperbole to illustrate the gravity of sin. The command to cut off a hand, foot, or eye is not to be taken literally but serves to highlight the absolute necessity of avoiding anything that leads to sin. This demonstrates how dangerous and destructive sin can be.

The concept of hell, as Jesus describes it, is also significant. He doesn’t refer to an eternally burning hell but uses images of fire and punishment to illustrate the final and irreversible nature of being lost. The notion of a “healthy person in hell” is an absurd exaggeration designed to emphasize the urgency of addressing sin.

Overall, this passage teaches a profound seriousness about dealing with sin and the great responsibility we have toward others, especially the weakest believers. The consequences of sin are grave, and Jesus calls for a radical attitude toward anything that tempts us.

The teachings of Jesus in Mark 9:42–50 have direct and profound implications for our daily lives and faith. The radical urgency Jesus emphasizes regarding the avoidance of sin challenges us to examine our own lives and decisions closely.

1. Responsibility to Others: Jesus speaks about the importance of protecting the “little ones,” those who are weak or new in the faith. In everyday life, this means we have a special responsibility for our behavior and the influence we exert on others. Our words, actions, and example can either strengthen others in their faith or cause them to stumble. This teaching calls us to be mindful of our responsibility and to handle others, particularly those susceptible to doubts and temptations, with sensitivity and care.

2. Radical Rejection of Sin: The drastic language of cutting off a hand or plucking out an eye is meant to make us recognize the seriousness of sin. In our daily lives, this might mean actively distancing ourselves from anything that tempts us or pulls us away from God. This can include avoiding certain places, correcting bad habits, or rethinking friendships that lead us astray. It’s about being consistent and setting priorities that foster our spiritual growth.

3. Understanding the Consequences: The idea of eternal hell may seem frightening, but Jesus uses this imagery to highlight the irreversibility of sin and its consequences. For our faith, this means we need to be aware of the seriousness of our lifestyle. It’s not just about avoiding sin but actively striving for holiness and righteousness. We should consider the long-term consequences of our decisions and remember that our earthly life is preparation for eternal life.

4. Salt and Fire in Daily Life: Jesus also speaks of “salt” losing its saltiness and “fire” that purifies. These images remind us that our faith must remain alive and impactful. We are called to be the “salt of the earth,” making a positive difference, and to allow ourselves to be refined through “fire”—symbolic of trials and challenges—to grow in our faith.

In summary, this passage urges us to lead our lives with seriousness and purpose. Sin is not trivial, and our responsibility to God and others is significant. By integrating these teachings into our daily lives, we can strengthen our own spiritual journey and become a shining example for others.

It is better to enter heaven with a wound than to be healthy and end up in hell.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-teaching-disciples-part-1-7-5-the-healthy-man-in-hell-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 14, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 15

¹ Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,

² Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.

³ But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?

⁴ For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.

⁵ But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me;

⁶ And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

⁷ Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,

⁸ This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.

⁹ But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.

¹⁰ And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand:

¹¹ Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.

¹² Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?

¹³ But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.

¹⁴ Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

¹⁵ Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.

¹⁶ And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?

¹⁷ Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?

¹⁸ But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

¹⁹ For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

²⁰ These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

²¹ Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.

²² And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

²³ But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.

²⁴ But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

²⁵ Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.

²⁶ But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to dogs.

²⁷ And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.

²⁸ Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

²⁹ And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there.

³⁰ And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus’ feet; and he healed them:

³¹ Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel.

³² Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.

³³ And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude?

³⁴ And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes.

³⁵ And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground.

³⁶ And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.

³⁷ And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full.

³⁸ And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children.

³⁹ And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Matthew Chapter 16 is a central section of the Gospel that addresses important themes of faith, the identity of Jesus, and the requirements of discipleship. It begins with a confrontation between Jesus and the religious leaders of his time and leads to profound teachings about the true nature of his mission and the role of his disciples. The chapter also includes Peter’s significant confession and the first announcement of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection.

Commentary

The Request for a Sign from the Pharisees (Verses 1-4):

At the beginning of the chapter, the Pharisees and Sadducees demand a sign from heaven from Jesus to prove his authority. Jesus rejects their demand and calls them hypocrites, as they can interpret the signs of the weather but are unable to recognize the spiritual signs of the times. He refers to the sign of the prophet Jonah as the only sign that will be given to them, alluding to his own resurrection. This encounter highlights the blindness and unbelief of the religious leaders, who, despite the clear signs of God in Jesus, are not willing to believe in him.

Warning Against the Leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees (Verses 5-12):

As Jesus and his disciples move on, Jesus warns them about the “leaven” of the Pharisees and Sadducees. The disciples initially do not understand that Jesus is speaking metaphorically, referring to the false teachings and hypocrisy of these religious groups. Jesus reminds them of the miracles of the feedings to make them realize that they should not worry about material bread but should guard against false spiritual nourishment. This passage underscores the danger of false teachings and the need to rely on God’s truth.

Peter’s Confession (Verses 13-20):

In the region of Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asks his disciples who people say he is, and finally, who they believe he is. Peter responds with the famous confession: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus praises Peter for this revelation, which did not come from human wisdom but from God. Jesus declares that on this “rock” (Peter), he will build his church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it. This passage is crucial for understanding the authority and role of the church as established by Jesus himself.

The First Announcement of Jesus’ Suffering and Resurrection (Verses 21-23):

After Peter acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus begins to speak openly about his forthcoming suffering, death, and resurrection. Peter, who was just praised for his faith, tries to prevent Jesus from this path, which Jesus sharply rebukes: “Get behind me, Satan!” These words show how easily even a faithful disciple can misunderstand divine plans when viewed from a human perspective.

The Demands of Discipleship (Verses 24-28):

Jesus then explains that anyone who wants to follow him must deny themselves and take up their cross. This passage emphasizes the radical commitment required of Jesus’ followers. It is not about saving one’s earthly life but losing it for Jesus’ sake to find true life. The question “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” places eternal destiny above all worldly successes and riches.

Summary

Matthew Chapter 16 brings together significant theological and practical teachings concerning both the identity of Jesus and the requirements for his followers. The warnings against false teachings and the emphasis on spiritual insight lead to the central confession that Jesus is the Christ. The announcement of Jesus’ suffering and the call to self-denial and cross-bearing challenge disciples and all believers to examine their faith and commitment. This chapter places faith at the center and stresses the need to recognize the signs of the times and be ready to follow Jesus’ path to the end.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan

This chapter is based on Luke 10:25-37.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 54 of “The Life of Jesus” delves into the Parable of the Good Samaritan, a story that conveys profound lessons about true religion and neighborly love. Jesus uses this parable to emphasize the importance of compassion and practical love, which go beyond mere formalism. It demonstrates that the true expression of faith lies in the willingness to help others, regardless of their cultural or religious differences. In a time when self-righteousness and exclusion were prevalent, Jesus places the commandment of love above all other commandments.

Commentary

The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of Jesus’ most profound and instructive parables, revealing the essence of true religion. It is not about outward rituals or formal religious practices, but about the active exercise of love, compassion, and mercy towards others, regardless of their background, faith, or social status. Jesus uses this story to expose the hypocritical attitude of the religious leaders of his time and to highlight the central importance of neighborly love.

The Good Samaritan represents the contrast between theoretical religiosity and practical, living love for one’s neighbor. While the priest and the Levite—religious authorities—pass by the injured man, it is the Samaritan, an outsider, who demonstrates true divine mercy. The parable underscores that true piety is not about distancing oneself from others but about caring for those in need and standing by them in their distress.

Through this parable, Jesus challenges his listeners and all believers to live out God’s love not just in words but in actions. He shows that a true neighbor is not just someone close to us, but anyone who needs our help. This teaching is a call to break down barriers of prejudice and self-righteousness and to cultivate an attitude of impartial mercy.

Summary

The Parable of the Good Samaritan powerfully illustrates the necessity of placing love for one’s neighbor and mercy above formal religious practices. Jesus makes it clear that true religion is not in the mere observance of rituals but in actively helping those in need. The Samaritan, who shows compassion despite cultural hostility, serves as a model of genuine divine love. The parable challenges us to break down barriers and see every person as our neighbor, whom we can help. This teaching remains a timeless reminder that love for God and our neighbor is the essence of the law and the life of faith.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 55—Not With Outward Show

This chapter is based on Luke 17:20-22.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Chapter 55 focuses on Jesus’ central message that the Kingdom of God is not manifested through outward signs or worldly power, but rather begins within the individual. This teaching sharply contrasted with the expectations of the Pharisees and many Jews, who were anticipating a visible, earthly kingdom. Jesus emphasized that the Kingdom of God is a spiritual state that grows in the hearts of believers, independent of external circumstances or worldly forms of government.

Jesus taught his disciples that the true glory of his mission does not lie in worldly splendor, but in the spiritual renewal of individuals through the Holy Spirit. It was only after his ascension and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that the disciples fully grasped the scope of Jesus’ mission. They came to understand that Christ’s kingdom is not established through earthly laws or power structures, but through the transformation of the heart and the following of Christ.

This message remains relevant today: the Kingdom of God is not built through political power or external reforms, but through inner renewal and living according to the teachings of Christ. Believers are called to seek not worldly glory, but to walk in humility and self-denial, following the path of Christ, who brought true light and life into the world.

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/15-08-2024-matthew-chapter-16-believe-his-prophets/

7.4 Who Is the Greatest?
True Greatness in the Kingdom of God: Humility and Service Instead of Ambition

Read Mark 9:30–41. How does Jesus’ second prediction of His death and resurrection differ from the first one (cf. Mk 8:31)? What are the disciples arguing about, and what instructions does Jesus give?

In Mark 9:30–41, Jesus’ second prediction of His death and resurrection differs from the first in that He now refers to the coming betrayal, without naming the betrayer, though readers already know it to be Judas (Mk 3:19). The disciples, once again, do not focus on the details of this prediction but argue about who among them is the greatest.

Jesus teaches them that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is defined by humility and service. He places a child among them to illustrate that anyone who welcomes the least of these in His name is actually welcoming God Himself. This teaching upends worldly notions of greatness and hierarchy, emphasizing the importance of humility and serving others.

When John questions about an outsider casting out demons in Jesus’ name, Jesus responds with the significant lesson that anyone who is not against us is for us. He underscores that even the smallest acts of support for those in service to Christ are noticed and valued by God.

How does the biblical view of greatness differ from the world’s view? What do you aspire to?

The biblical view of greatness stands in stark contrast to worldly notions. In the world, greatness is often equated with power, influence, wealth, and prestige. People strive to be at the top, to be admired and recognized, seeking external success to validate their worth.

In the Bible, however, greatness is defined by humility, readiness to serve, and love for others. Jesus teaches that true greatness lies in being a servant, dedicating oneself to others, and not seeking personal glory. By placing a child in the center, He demonstrates that those who seem insignificant in the eyes of the world have a special place in the Kingdom of God. It is about serving God by serving others, especially the weak and needy.

This biblical view challenges us to examine our aspirations: Are we pursuing worldly recognition and success, or are we striving to be great in God’s eyes by serving and loving humbly? It invites us to shift our focus from self and ambitions to the well-being of others and God’s will.

In daily life, we are often confronted with expectations that measure success and greatness by career advancement, recognition, wealth, or influence. These worldly standards can lead us to focus our energy on promoting ourselves and elevating ourselves above others.

Jesus, however, shows us in this passage that true greatness is not about what we achieve for ourselves but about how we serve others. Humility and willingness to serve are key values in the Kingdom of God, often reflected in small, everyday actions: caring for our families, helping a colleague, supporting the weak and needy.

Our faith calls us to recognize greatness in these small acts that matter in God’s eyes. It involves letting go of pride and ambition and instead seeking ways to serve others. This attitude not only shapes our actions but also transforms our hearts and character.

By embracing this biblical view of greatness, we align our lives with Jesus’ teachings. We learn to find our significance not in external successes but in love and service. This shift in perspective brings peace and fulfillment, drawing us closer to God and to what truly matters.

Ultimately, this teaching asks us: “What really matters in my life?” and redirects us to focus on what has lasting value in faith and everyday living.

True greatness lies in humility, serving others, and showing love in the smallest acts.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-teaching-disciples-part-1-7-4-who-is-the-greatest-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 13, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 14

¹ At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,

² And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.

³ For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias’ sake, his brother Philip’s wife.

⁴ For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her.

⁵ And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.

⁶ But when Herod’s birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.

⁷ Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask.

⁸ And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist’s head in a charger.

⁹ And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath’s sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her.

¹⁰ And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.

¹¹ And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel: and she brought it to her mother.

¹² And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus.

¹³ When Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship into a desert place apart: and when the people had heard thereof, they followed him on foot out of the cities.

¹⁴ And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.

¹⁵ And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.

¹⁶ But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.

¹⁷ And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.

¹⁸ He said, Bring them hither to me.

¹⁹ And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.

²⁰ And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.

²¹ And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

²² And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away.

²³ And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

²⁴ But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.

²⁵ And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.

²⁶ And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.

²⁷ But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

²⁸ And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.

²⁹ And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.

³⁰ But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.

³¹ And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

³² And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.

³³ Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

³⁴ And when they were gone over, they came into the land of Gennesaret.

³⁵ And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;

³⁶ And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Matthew Chapter 15 addresses central questions of purity and faith, which concern both Jewish law and Jesus’ universal message. In this chapter, Jesus encounters both the Pharisees and scribes, who defend religious traditions, and a Gentile woman, whose faith Jesus admires. Through miracles and teachings, Jesus clarifies the true meaning of purity and the breadth of divine mercy.

Commentary:

On Purity and Impurity (Verses 1-20):

In this section, Jesus is challenged by the Pharisees and scribes, who accuse him of his disciples not following the ritual hand-washing rules. Jesus seizes this opportunity to question the priorities of the religious elite. He shows that they neglect God’s command in favor of human traditions. He quotes the prophet Isaiah to expose their hypocrisy: they honor God with their lips, but their hearts are far from Him. Jesus emphasizes that true impurity does not come from external rituals but from evil thoughts and actions that come from the heart. This represents a radical shift from external legal adherence to inner moral integrity.

The Canaanite Woman (Verses 21-28):

In this remarkable section, Jesus encounters a Canaanite woman who desperately asks for healing for her demon-possessed daughter. Although Jesus initially hesitates and says that his mission is limited to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel,” the woman shows remarkable persistence and humility. She accepts Jesus’ apparent rejection but remains firm in her belief that He can also help her. Jesus is so impressed by her faith that He grants her request and heals her daughter. This encounter highlights the universal reach of Jesus’ message and the power of faith, regardless of ethnic or religious boundaries.

Further Healings and the Feeding of the Four Thousand (Verses 29-39):

After the encounter with the Canaanite woman, Jesus again demonstrates His power through a series of healings and the miracle of feeding the four thousand. These acts reflect Jesus’ compassion for suffering people and affirm His divine authority. Notably, this miracle parallels the earlier feeding of the five thousand, with four thousand men, excluding women and children, being fed with seven loaves and a few fish. These miracles highlight that Jesus’ provision is abundant and His grace knows no bounds.

Summary:

Matthew Chapter 15 sheds light on Jesus’ profound spiritual teaching, which puts external rituals in the shadow and brings the state of the heart to the forefront. It shows how Jesus breaks through the narrow confines of Jewish law and praises faith beyond ethnic and cultural barriers. The encounter with the Canaanite woman demonstrates the power of faith and the extent of God’s grace, while the miracles of healing and feeding reveal Jesus’ boundless compassion and His ability to meet people’s needs. This chapter challenges readers to examine the purity of their hearts and recognize faith as the key to divine grace.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 54—The Good Samaritan

This chapter is based on Luke 10:25-37.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 54 of “The Life of Jesus” delves into the Parable of the Good Samaritan, a story that conveys profound lessons about true religion and neighborly love. Jesus uses this parable to emphasize the importance of compassion and practical love, which go beyond mere formalism. It demonstrates that the true expression of faith lies in the willingness to help others, regardless of their cultural or religious differences. In a time when self-righteousness and exclusion were prevalent, Jesus places the commandment of love above all other commandments.

Commentary

The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of Jesus’ most profound and instructive parables, revealing the essence of true religion. It is not about outward rituals or formal religious practices, but about the active exercise of love, compassion, and mercy towards others, regardless of their background, faith, or social status. Jesus uses this story to expose the hypocritical attitude of the religious leaders of his time and to highlight the central importance of neighborly love.

The Good Samaritan represents the contrast between theoretical religiosity and practical, living love for one’s neighbor. While the priest and the Levite—religious authorities—pass by the injured man, it is the Samaritan, an outsider, who demonstrates true divine mercy. The parable underscores that true piety is not about distancing oneself from others but about caring for those in need and standing by them in their distress.

Through this parable, Jesus challenges his listeners and all believers to live out God’s love not just in words but in actions. He shows that a true neighbor is not just someone close to us, but anyone who needs our help. This teaching is a call to break down barriers of prejudice and self-righteousness and to cultivate an attitude of impartial mercy.

Summary

The Parable of the Good Samaritan powerfully illustrates the necessity of placing love for one’s neighbor and mercy above formal religious practices. Jesus makes it clear that true religion is not in the mere observance of rituals but in actively helping those in need. The Samaritan, who shows compassion despite cultural hostility, serves as a model of genuine divine love. The parable challenges us to break down barriers and see every person as our neighbor, whom we can help. This teaching remains a timeless reminder that love for God and our neighbor is the essence of the law and the life of faith.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 55—Not With Outward Show

This chapter is based on Luke 17:20-22.

Read online here

 

Commentary

Chapter 55 focuses on Jesus’ central message that the Kingdom of God is not manifested through outward signs or worldly power, but rather begins within the individual. This teaching sharply contrasted with the expectations of the Pharisees and many Jews, who were anticipating a visible, earthly kingdom. Jesus emphasized that the Kingdom of God is a spiritual state that grows in the hearts of believers, independent of external circumstances or worldly forms of government.

Jesus taught his disciples that the true glory of his mission does not lie in worldly splendor, but in the spiritual renewal of individuals through the Holy Spirit. It was only after his ascension and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit that the disciples fully grasped the scope of Jesus’ mission. They came to understand that Christ’s kingdom is not established through earthly laws or power structures, but through the transformation of the heart and the following of Christ.

This message remains relevant today: the Kingdom of God is not built through political power or external reforms, but through inner renewal and living according to the teachings of Christ. Believers are called to seek not worldly glory, but to walk in humility and self-denial, following the path of Christ, who brought true light and life into the world.

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/14-08-2024-matthew-chapter-15-believe-his-prophets/

7.3 The Mountain and the Multitude
The Transfiguration: A Glimpse of Jesus’ Glory and the Coming Kingdom

Read Mark 9:1–13. What did Peter, James, and John see one night with Jesus?

In Mark 9:1–13, Peter, James, and John experience something extraordinary: they see Jesus in His divine glory, transfigured on a high mountain, speaking with Moses and Elijah. This vision is a powerful revelation of the coming Kingdom of God in its power—a fulfillment of Jesus’ promise that some of His disciples would see the Kingdom of God come with power before they tasted death.

The Transfiguration provides the disciples with a profound insight into the divine nature of Jesus, linking His forthcoming suffering and death with His future glory. It is a moment of encouragement and hope, especially in light of the upcoming challenges the disciples would face following Jesus’ crucifixion. The presence of Moses and Elijah, two major figures from the Old Testament, indicates that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, and that His path to the cross is part of the divine plan.

However, this peak spiritual revelation is soon met by the reality and challenges of daily life as Jesus and the three disciples descend the mountain. Upon returning, they encounter a crowd, including the remaining disciples who are unable to heal a possessed boy. This stark contrast between the heavenly glory on the mountain and human weakness below highlights the discrepancy between faith and doubt.

The desperate cry of the boy’s father—“I believe; help my unbelief!”—captures the tension between faith and doubt that many of us experience in our daily lives. This account reminds us that true discipleship encompasses both moments of divine revelation and everyday struggles. The journey of faith involves highs and lows, moments of deep spiritual insight and challenges that test our beliefs.

The experience on the mountain teaches us that the glory and Kingdom of God are present even in our world, despite being surrounded by doubt and chaos. It calls us to, like the boy’s father, direct our faith towards Jesus despite all doubts and to trust in His power and mercy. In the highs and lows of our own faith journeys, we can trust that Jesus is with us—in His glory and in our need.

In what situations have you had to cry out, “I believe, help my unbelief”? What have you learned from these experiences?

The cry “I believe, help my unbelief” is a deeply personal expression of the tension between trust and doubt that we encounter in difficult moments. In my own life, there have been situations where I have felt or even spoken these words out loud.

One such situation occurred when I faced a significant decision that would greatly impact my life. I felt that God was leading me in a particular direction, but the uncertainty and fear of the potential consequences were overwhelming. In these moments, my faith felt weak, and I was torn between trusting God’s plan and doubting my ability to follow it.

I cried out internally for God’s help because I knew my own faith was insufficient to overcome my fear and doubt. This prayer was both an acknowledgment of my faith and an admission of my weakness. It was a moment of deep dependence on God, recognizing that true faith does not mean the absence of doubt but trusting in God’s faithfulness despite it.

From this experience, I learned that faith often grows in the tension between trust and doubt. These words—“I believe, help my unbelief”—remind us that it is okay to have doubts as long as we bring them to God and trust in His help. I also learned that God responds to our honest wrestling with faith. He is ready to meet us where we are and strengthen our faith, even when it is weak and uncertain.

These experiences have encouraged me to persevere in faith, even when it is difficult, and have helped me understand more deeply that faith is a process that grows through challenges and doubts. God is patient with us and helps us when we call out to Him in our weakness.

The story of Jesus’ Transfiguration on the mountain and the subsequent experience of the disciples in the valley offers valuable lessons for our daily lives and faith. These events highlight that our spiritual lives involve both peaks and valleys and that the path of discipleship traverses these fluctuations.

1. Encouragement from Spiritual Highs: The Transfiguration was a moment of deep revelation and encouragement for the disciples. In our own lives, we sometimes experience similar “mountain-top moments” where we feel God’s presence and glory intensely. These moments strengthen our faith and give us the power to face daily challenges. It is important to consciously experience these spiritual highs and use them as a source of strength and hope when encountering difficulties later on.

2. Faith in Daily Life: After the Transfiguration, Jesus and the disciples return to everyday reality, where they face challenges that test their faith. This shows us that faith is not only tested in the highs but especially in the everyday struggles—when doubts and difficulties arise. Like the father of the possessed boy, we often have to cry out, “I believe, help my unbelief!” This tension between faith and doubt is a part of our daily spiritual journey.

3. God’s Presence in Times of Need: The Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus is with us in moments of glory as well as in times of need. Even when we feel overwhelmed by doubts and difficulties, it is important to remember that God is with us, even in the darkest times. This understanding helps us to trust in God’s faithfulness, even when we cannot clearly see or understand Him.

4. Growth through Challenges: The story demonstrates that our faith often grows through challenges. Doubts and difficulties are not the end but opportunities to deepen our faith and become stronger. By bringing our weaknesses and doubts before God, we can experience how He strengthens us and guides us through these times.

In summary, this story teaches us that the Christian life is a journey through both moments of revelation and trials. In these fluctuations, there is an opportunity to deepen our faith by holding on to God’s presence and faithfulness in both the highs and lows. It is a reminder that true faith is not the absence of challenges but the trust that God carries us through every situation.

Only those who climb the mountain can understand the crowd with a clear view.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-7-teaching-disciples-part-1-7-3-the-mountain-and-the-multitude-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/