9.4 Earthly Duties and Heavenly Outcomes
Taxes and Resurrection: Jesus’ Wisdom in the Face of Worldly and Spiritual Challenges

Read Mark 12:13–27. What happens here, and what does Jesus teach?

In Mark 12:13–27, Jesus encounters religious leaders again, who attempt to trap Him with difficult questions. First, the Pharisees and Herodians ask Him about paying taxes to the Roman emperor, hoping to anger either the Roman authorities or the Jewish people. Jesus’ response is both wise and profound: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” With this answer, Jesus shows that while we should fulfill our earthly duties, they should not conflict with our higher spiritual obligations. He teaches that as believers, we must adhere to our civic responsibilities while remaining faithful to God, with our loyalty to God always taking precedence.

Next, the Sadducees approach Jesus with a hypothetical question about the resurrection, intending to discredit the teaching of resurrection. They construct an absurd scenario to ridicule the concept of resurrection. Jesus responds with a profound truth: In heaven, earthly institutions like marriage will no longer exist, as life after resurrection will be of a different, higher nature. Moreover, Jesus uses the Scriptures, which the Sadducees also accept, to defend the truth of the resurrection. He refers to God’s self-revelation as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, emphasizing that God is a God of the living, not of the dead. This implies that the patriarchs will live on in the resurrection.

This passage teaches us that our faith has significance both in this world and in the coming one. We are to fulfill our earthly duties conscientiously while keeping our eternal, spiritual truths and our faithfulness to God in view. Jesus shows us that our hope extends beyond this life and that our relationship with God will find its fulfillment in the resurrection. This reminds us that our heavenly destiny should shape our actions and thoughts in this world.

If someone were to ask you, “Do you know the power of God?” how would you respond and why?

If someone asked me, “Do you know the power of God?” I would respond, “Yes, I know it because I have experienced it in my life and in the world around me.”

I would say this because I have witnessed God’s power in various forms—whether through creation surrounding us, answered prayers, the impact of His Word in my life, or the transformation of hearts and lives made possible only by His love and grace.

God’s power is evident in His ability to make the impossible possible, in His infinite wisdom governing the world, and in His mercy that can heal even the most broken heart. These experiences and insights give me confidence that God’s power is real and omnipresent, both in grand miracles and in the everyday grace He bestows upon us.

The lesson from Mark 12:13–27 offers valuable connections to our daily life and faith by showing how we as Christians should live in a world that presents both worldly and spiritual challenges.

1. Balancing Earthly Duties with Spiritual Priorities: Jesus teaches us that it is important to fulfill our earthly duties—whether paying taxes or following laws—as long as these do not contradict our higher obligation to God. This lesson reminds us that while we live in and are part of this world, our loyalty to God must always come first. In our daily lives, this means acting responsibly in our work, family, and society, while keeping God’s values and commandments in view.

2. Understanding God’s Power and Hope for the Eternal: The question about the resurrection shows that our faith is relevant not just for this life but also for what comes after death. Jesus’ teaching about the resurrection encourages us to expand our perspective on life beyond the earthly. This has practical implications for our daily lives as it reminds us that our decisions and actions in this world have both temporary and eternal significance. Our hope in the resurrection and eternal life should shape our thinking, behavior, and priorities.

3. Experiencing God’s Power in Daily Life: When reflecting on God’s power, we should recognize that it is not only visible in grand miracles or extraordinary events but also in the everyday experiences of our lives. Whether through prayer, studying His Word, or experiencing His creation—God’s power is constantly at work in and around us. This understanding strengthens our trust and helps us rely on God even in difficult situations, knowing that His power is greater than any earthly challenge.

In summary, this passage encourages us to lead lives that meet both the demands of this world and the expectations of God. It reminds us that our faith is relevant not just for Sundays but for every day and every decision. By fulfilling our earthly duties and simultaneously trusting in God’s power and eternal promises, we can live a life that honors God and prepares us for our heavenly destiny.

Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s—because our highest loyalty always belongs to God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-jerusalem-controversies-9-4-earthly-duties-and-heavenly-outcomes-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/28-08-2024-mark-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/

9.3 Who Said You Could Do That?
The Challenge to Authority: Jesus’ Wise Response to the Religious Leaders

Read Mark 11:27–33. What challenge did the religious leaders bring to Jesus, and how did He respond?

The encounter between Jesus and the religious leaders in the temple court is a striking example of how Jesus responds to challenges with wisdom and authority. The leaders come not to seek truth but to trap Jesus and question His authority. Their intention is to either engage Him in a theological debate or to discredit Him before the people.

However, Jesus exposes their deceit by confronting them with a question of His own—the question about the origin of John’s baptism. By doing so, He puts the leaders in a dilemma that reveals their greater concern for maintaining their own positions rather than recognizing the truth. Their inability to provide a clear answer demonstrates their insincerity and their inability to recognize spiritual authority when it stands before them.

This exchange teaches us the importance of having our questions and doubts come from a sincere heart seeking truth, rather than from a stance of defending our own position. It reminds us that true authority and wisdom come from God and that in moments of challenge, we should rely on God’s guidance and truth rather than human cunning.

Read Mark 12:1–12. What did Jesus do after He refused to answer, and what was the result?

After Jesus skillfully avoided answering the religious leaders’ question, He tells them the parable of the vineyard. This parable is not merely a story but a powerful prophetic warning. Jesus uses the familiar image of the vineyard to make the seriousness of the situation clear to the religious leaders.

In the parable, the tenants represent the religious leaders who abuse God’s trust and mistreat and reject the prophets (the servants of the owner). The beloved son represents Jesus Himself, whom God sends as a final attempt to reach the hearts of the people. Instead of respecting Him, the tenants plan to kill Him, mistakenly believing that this will give them control.

Through this parable, Jesus holds up a mirror to the leaders: their rejection of Jesus is not just a human failure but a spiritual transgression of the highest order. The parable ends with a clear judgment: the owner will remove the evil tenants and give the vineyard to others.

The religious leaders immediately recognize that the parable is directed against them, but instead of repenting, they harden their hearts further and seek ways to eliminate Jesus. This reaction illustrates the tragedy of their situation: they are presented with an opportunity for repentance but choose the path of rebellion.

The parable thus serves as a warning not only to the religious leaders of the time but also to us today. It reminds us that we are to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to us and that rejecting God’s message has serious consequences. Yet, it also offers hope: as long as we are willing to open our hearts and change, there is always a way back to God.

The encounter between Jesus and the religious leaders in Mark 11:27–33 and the subsequent parable of the vineyard in Mark 12:1–12 have deep relevance for our daily lives and faith.

1. Questioning Our Own Motives: In daily life, we often question others’ decisions or motives, sometimes with hidden agendas. Just as the religious leaders questioned Jesus not from a sincere heart but with deceit, we should examine whether our questions and doubts genuinely seek the truth or merely defend our own position. Honest faith requires us to seek God with an open heart, ready to be corrected and guided by Him.

2. Recognition of True Authority: The religious leaders could not recognize Jesus’ authority because they were trapped in their own traditions and power structures. Likewise, we can sometimes be blind to God’s work in our lives because it doesn’t match our expectations or ideas. We are invited to acknowledge divine authority in our lives and trust in God’s guidance, even if it means letting go of our own plans.

3. Responsibility as Stewards: The parable of the vineyard reminds us that we are stewards of everything God has entrusted to us—whether our faith, talents, relationships, or resources. Like the tenants in the parable, we are called to use these gifts fruitfully and faithfully. This means taking responsibility in our daily lives and using what has been given to us in accordance with God’s will.

4. The Danger of Hardening: The religious leaders’ response to the parable, where they hardened their stance against Jesus, led them down a path of further rejection. We face daily choices in how we respond to God’s word and guidance—whether we harden our hearts or open them to be led by Him. This choice impacts our spiritual growth and relationship with God.

5. Hope for Repentance: The parable also shows that it is never too late to repent. God always offers the opportunity for repentance and return. In our daily lives, this means being ready to admit our mistakes, repent, and continually align ourselves with God’s path.

In summary, these passages challenge us to keep our hearts open, recognize God’s authority in our lives, take responsibility for what we’ve been entrusted with, and be always ready to repent. In doing so, we can grow in our faith and develop a deeper relationship with God.

True wisdom is shown by trusting in God’s guidance, even when questioned by others.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-jerusalem-controversies-9-3-who-said-you-could-do-that-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 27, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 28

¹ In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

² And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

³ His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

⁴ And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

⁵ And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

⁶ He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

⁷ And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

⁸ And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

⁹ And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

¹⁰ Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

¹¹ Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.

¹² And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,

¹³ Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.

¹⁴ And if this come to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.

¹⁵ So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.

¹⁶ Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.

¹⁷ And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

¹⁸ And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

¹⁹ Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

²⁰ Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction:

Matthew 28 represents the climax of the Christian message and the conclusion of the Passion of Jesus. It recounts the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an event that constitutes the central belief of Christianity. The chapter begins with the women discovering the empty tomb and ends with the Great Commission, which gives the disciples and all future believers the task of spreading Jesus’ teachings to the world.

Commentary:

Matthew 28 begins with the account of Jesus’ resurrection, a pivotal turning point in the history of Christianity. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary come to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body, only to find that the tomb is empty. The scene is dramatically underscored by an earthquake and the appearance of an angel who rolls away the stone from the tomb. The angel announces Jesus’ resurrection to the women, a message that brings both fear and great joy. These women are the first witnesses of the resurrection and the first to spread this joyous news.

The appearance of Jesus himself to the women on their way to the disciples further emphasizes the significance of the resurrection. Jesus greets them with the words “Do not be afraid,” showing that the resurrection is not only a miracle but also a sign of peace and hope. Jesus’ instructions to the women to tell the disciples to go to Galilee prepare the way for the Great Commission that follows at the end of the chapter.

In parallel to the joyful message of the resurrection, the chapter also presents the reaction of the Jewish leaders, who attempt to portray the resurrection as a deceit. This reaction contrasts the truth of the Gospel with human efforts to suppress it. The soldiers guarding the tomb are bribed to lie and claim that the disciples stole Jesus’ body. However, this attempt to cover up the resurrection is ultimately depicted as fruitless, as the message of Jesus’ resurrection continues to spread.

The climax of the chapter and the entire Gospel is Jesus’ Great Commission to his disciples. On a mountain in Galilee, the site of many significant events in Jesus’ life, He gives the disciples the mandate to teach and baptize all nations. This command emphasizes the universal nature of the Gospel and the disciples’ responsibility to carry Jesus’ message to the entire world. Jesus assures them that “all authority in heaven and on earth” has been given to Him and concludes with the promise that He will be with them “to the very end of the age.” This promise provides believers with comfort and confidence that Jesus remains present in their lives as they spread His teachings.

Summary:

Matthew 28 describes the resurrection of Jesus and its far-reaching significance for the Christian community. The discovery of the empty tomb and the encounter with the risen Jesus strengthen the disciples in their faith and prepare them for their future mission. The Great Commission, which is to carry the Gospel to the world, highlights the global and timeless dimension of Jesus’ message. The chapter concludes with the promise of Jesus’ constant presence, which provides believers with strength and assurance for their mission.

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 58—“Lazarus, Come Forth”

This chapter is based on Luke 10:38-42; John 11:1-44.

Read online here

Commentary

The chapter “Lazarus, Come Fourth” describes one of the most powerful and symbolic episodes in the ministry of Jesus. The raising of Lazarus from the dead is not only a remarkable miracle but also a profound testament to Jesus’ divine authority and love for his friends. This chapter uniquely brings together faith, hope, and the nature of divine providence.

Lazarus and the Family in Bethany:
Lazarus, along with his sisters Mary and Martha, are among Jesus’ most devoted followers. The close bond between them and Jesus goes far beyond what one would expect in a mere teacher-student relationship. The house in Bethany, home to Lazarus and his sisters, often serves as a refuge for Jesus, a place of peace and friendship where he can rest from the demands of his public ministry. This deep emotional connection becomes particularly evident when Lazarus falls ill and eventually dies.

Jesus’ Reaction to Lazarus’ Death:
Interestingly, Jesus hesitates to go to Bethany upon hearing of Lazarus’ illness. This delay initially seems puzzling, especially to the disciples who are aware of Jesus’ deep affection for Lazarus and his family. However, Jesus’ delay is intentional and serves a greater purpose: the glorification of God and the strengthening of his disciples’ faith. Jesus knows that the forthcoming miracle, the resurrection of Lazarus, will provide a powerful demonstration of his divine power and his identity as the Messiah.

The Dialogue with Martha and Mary:
When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, he is greeted by Martha, who affirms her faith in him but is still sorrowful over her brother’s death. Jesus uses this moment to strengthen both Martha’s and Mary’s faith by telling them that he himself is “the resurrection and the life.” These words are central, as they not only point to the imminent resurrection of Lazarus but also to the deeper truth that Jesus embodies eternal life itself.

The Raising of Lazarus:
The climax of the chapter is undoubtedly the scene where Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb. This act is so powerful and majestic that it dispels any doubts about Jesus’ divine nature. The miracle is a symbolic act that foreshadows the future resurrection of all believers and demonstrates Jesus’ sovereignty over life and death. The reaction of those present—a mixture of astonishment, joy, and gratitude—highlights the profound emotional and spiritual impact of this miracle.

Significance for Faith:
The raising of Lazarus is not only a physical miracle but also a spiritual sign. It shows that faith in Jesus offers a living hope for eternal life, a hope that extends beyond death. Jesus demonstrates that death does not have the final word, but that through him, life triumphs. For the disciples and all who witness this event, it becomes clear that Jesus is indeed the Son of God, who has come to establish the Kingdom of God on earth.

The Deep Humanity of Jesus:
What is particularly moving is the portrayal of Jesus’ deep compassion. Although he knows that he will raise Lazarus from the dead, he weeps with those who mourn. These tears reveal Jesus’ full humanity and his capacity to experience genuine pain and loss. It presents a picture of Jesus that brings him closer to us: the divine Savior who is fully human, suffering with us and understanding our suffering.

Conclusion:
The chapter “Lazarus, Come Fourth” illustrates that Jesus’ actions and words are always directed toward a deeper, divine purpose—revealing his nature and mission to bring life that transcends death. The resurrection of Lazarus is a precursor to the final resurrection and a powerful symbol of the victory of life over death. It reminds us that in times of suffering and darkness, faith in Christ can lead us to a new life that surpasses our current reality.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/27-08-2024-matthew-chapter-28-believe-his-prophets/

9.2 A Cursed Tree and a Cleansed Temple
Symbols of Divine Judgment

Read Mark 11:12–26. What is the significance of the events described here?

The events in Mark 11:12–26 are deeply symbolic and hold great significance for understanding Jesus’ message. The fig tree and the temple in this narrative are closely related and illustrate a sharp critique of the religious practices and spiritual state of Israel.

The fig tree, which has many leaves but no fruit, symbolizes the religious system of the temple and the religious leaders of that time. Outwardly, everything seemed fine—the temple operations were running at full throttle, and the religious leaders were in control. Yet, internally, the system was empty and fruitless, lacking the true fruit of faith and righteousness. Jesus curses the tree as a sign of the coming judgment upon the fruitless religious system.

The cleansing of the temple is a powerful act that underscores Jesus’ zeal for true worship of God and the purity of worship. By driving out the merchants and money changers, Jesus calls for a return to the original purpose of the temple as a “house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:7). However, the religious leaders had perverted this purpose through their greed and abuse of the system, turning the temple into a “den of robbers” (Jeremiah 7:11).

The connection between these two events—the withered fig tree and the cleansing of the temple—demonstrates that Jesus is delivering a radical critique of apparent piety without genuine spiritual fruit. It serves as a warning that outward religious practices are meaningless if they are not accompanied by a living faith and true obedience to God.

At the end of this narrative, Jesus teaches His disciples an important lesson about prayer and forgiveness. The withered fig tree serves as an example of the power of faith in prayer. At the same time, Jesus emphasizes that true worship and relationship with God always involve a readiness to forgive. These teachings are a call to inner purification and renewal of faith, away from outward appearances and empty ritualism.

Overall, this passage calls us to examine our own spiritual lives and ensure that our faith is not only outwardly visible but also inwardly fruitful, for the glory of God and the service of others.

What in your life needs to be cleansed by Jesus? How can this happen?

The question of what needs to be cleansed in our lives by Jesus is an invitation to deep self-reflection. Often, there are areas in our lives marked by sin, false priorities, or harmful habits. These can distance us from God and hinder our spiritual growth.

Perhaps there are areas in your life such as:

1. Unforgiveness or Bitterness: These can harden the heart and block the flow of God’s love and grace.

2. Selfishness or Pride: These lead us to focus more on ourselves than on God and others.

3. Fear and Doubt: These can weaken faith and prevent us from trusting and following God’s will.

4. Materialism or Addictions: These can distract us from the true treasures of life and push our relationship with God into the background.

To have these areas cleansed by Jesus, the first step is recognizing and admitting our weaknesses and sins. This is done through honest prayer, where we confess our faults and our need for His grace.

The next step is to actively bring these areas before God and ask for forgiveness and healing. This requires humility and a willingness to be transformed by God. It may also be helpful to seek support from spiritual communities that offer encouragement, prayer, and guidance.

Finally, it is important to trust in God’s guidance and actively take steps to leave behind old patterns. This could involve reading the Bible, regular prayer, attending worship services, or seeking spiritual counsel.

Allow Jesus to cleanse your heart and life by opening yourself to Him in prayer and dedication, being willing to leave behind old ways, and trusting in His plan for your life.

The events of the withered fig tree and the cleansing of the temple have a clear connection to our daily lives and faith. They challenge us to critically examine our spiritual lives and ensure that they are not only outwardly intact but also inwardly characterized by genuine fruit and spiritual depth.

1. Authenticity over Outward Appearances: In our daily lives, it is easy to fall into a routine of outward piety—regular church attendance, prayer, and religious rituals—without our hearts truly being filled with love, faith, and obedience to God. The withered fig tree symbolizes the danger of our lives appearing religious outwardly while bearing no inner fruit. This reminds us that God looks not just at the outside but at the inside, and our faith should be visible in genuine acts of love and righteousness.

2. Cleansing the “Temple” Within Us: The temple that Jesus cleansed was a place of worship that had been defiled by greed and false priorities. In our lives, there may be areas that need similar “cleansing”—whether it’s overcoming sin, letting go of false priorities, or seeking true devotion to God. Our hearts are often described as the “temple” of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and it is our responsibility to keep this temple pure and holy.

3. Prayer and Forgiveness as a Lifestyle: Jesus uses the withered fig tree to teach a lesson about the power of faith and the importance of forgiveness. These principles are crucial for our daily lives as Christians. A vibrant faith is demonstrated in trusting God’s power and goodness in every situation, while forgiveness helps us live free from bitterness and hatred. This challenges us to actively and regularly pray, trust God in all things, and both receive and extend forgiveness.

4. The Call to Self-Examination: Finally, these events call us to regularly examine our spiritual lives. Are we like the fig tree that bears no fruit or like a temple that has lost its true purpose? This self-examination helps us identify areas where we need to rededicate ourselves to God and take steps to grow in our relationship with Him.

The connection between these biblical stories and our daily lives carries a powerful message: Our faith should be not only visible but also authentic and fruitful, marked by true obedience, deep prayer, and a pure heart.

A fruitful faith is not shown in outward appearances but in the purity of the heart and the authenticity of our actions.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-jerusalem-controversies-9-2-a-cursed-tree-and-a-cleansed-temple-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/