September 11, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 15

¹ And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.

² And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering said unto them, Thou sayest it.

³ And the chief priests accused him of many things: but he answered nothing.

⁴ And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against thee.

⁵ But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.

⁶ Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.

⁷ And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.

⁸ And the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them.

⁹ But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?

¹⁰ For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.

¹¹ But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.

¹² And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?

¹³ And they cried out again, Crucify him.

¹⁴ Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.

¹⁵ And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.

¹⁶ And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Praetorium; and they call together the whole band.

¹⁷ And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head,

¹⁸ And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!

¹⁹ And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him.

²⁰ And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.

²¹ And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.

²² And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.

²³ And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.

²⁴ And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.

²⁵ And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.

²⁶ And the superscription of his accusation was written over, The King Of The Jews.

²⁷ And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left.

²⁸ And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

²⁹ And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days,

³⁰ Save thyself, and come down from the cross.

³¹ Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among themselves with the scribes, He saved others; himself he cannot save.

³² Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him reviled him.

³³ And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.

³⁴ And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

³⁵ And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, he calleth Elias.

³⁶ And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; let us see whether Elias will come to take him down.

³⁷ And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.

³⁸ And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.

³⁹ And when the centurion, which stood over against him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.

⁴⁰ There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;

⁴¹ (Who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him;) and many other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.

⁴² And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,

⁴³ Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.

⁴⁴ And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

⁴⁵ And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.

⁴⁶ And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.

⁴⁷ And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Mark 15 describes the final hours of Jesus before His crucifixion, His condemnation by Pilate, and His subsequent execution. The chapter highlights the political and religious tensions that led to Jesus’ death and illustrates both the injustice of the process and the profound symbolic significance of His suffering and dying. Particular emphasis is placed on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the reactions of those around Jesus, from the Roman centurion to the women who followed Him to the cross.

Commentary:

Mark 15 powerfully portrays the suffering and death of Jesus, making it clear that these events were motivated by both religious and political factors. Pilate, who recognizes the injustice done to Jesus, ultimately succumbs to the pressure of the crowd and condemns Him to be crucified. The depiction of Jesus as the suffering Messiah is central, as He consciously accepts the fate assigned to Him without defending Himself. His silence before Pilate demonstrates His determination to fulfill the divine plan. The mockery that Jesus endures contrasts with His true identity, which is only acknowledged by a Roman centurion after His death. Additionally, the darkness and the tearing of the temple curtain signify the profound meaning of Jesus’ death as a sacrifice that abolishes the separation between God and humanity.

Summary:

In the 15th chapter of the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is handed over to the Roman governor Pilate, who, despite being convinced of His innocence, condemns Him to death under pressure from the crowd and the chief priests. Barabbas, a rebel, is released, while Jesus is mocked, scourged, and ultimately crucified. On the way to His execution, Simon of Cyrene helps carry the cross. Jesus is crucified at Golgotha, is mocked, and dies with the words, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Upon His death, the temple curtain is torn, and the Roman centurion acknowledges that Jesus was the Son of God. Joseph of Arimathea ensures His burial.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/11-09-2024-mark-chapter-15-believe-his-prophets/

11.3 Gethsemane
The Cup of Suffering: Jesus’ Prayer and Acceptance of the Divine Will

Read Mark 14:32–42. What did Jesus pray in Gethsemane, and how was the prayer answered?

In Mark 14:32–42, we see Jesus in one of the most crucial and difficult moments of his earthly life – in the Garden of Gethsemane. Here, his human side is revealed in a deeply empathetic and understandable way. He is in extreme spiritual anguish as he faces the impending suffering and prays fervently that the cup of suffering be taken from him. Yet, through his words, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Take this cup away from me! Nevertheless, not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36), he demonstrates his complete submission and surrender to the will of God.

Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane represents an inner struggle between the natural human desire to avoid suffering and the willingness to submit to the divine plan. The use of the term “Abba” – an intimate form of addressing the Father – emphasizes the closeness between Jesus and God. Even though God seemingly answers Jesus’ prayer with a “no,” the prayer reveals the deep relationship and trust Jesus has in his Father’s plan.

God does not take the cup of suffering from Jesus, as it is through this path of suffering and crucifixion that the salvation of humanity becomes possible. Jesus accepts this divine plan, even though it brings him unimaginable pain and a sense of abandonment.

A particularly painful aspect of Gethsemane is the loneliness Jesus must endure. Three times he returns to his closest disciples – Peter, James, and John – hoping to find comfort and support. But three times he finds them asleep. This reinforces the sense of isolation that Jesus experiences in this hour of trial. While he is spiritually and physically prepared to bear the burden of the world’s sin, his disciples are not ready to share this load. They are physically present but spiritually and emotionally absent.

This scene also teaches us important lessons about prayer and community. Jesus prayed to God in his deepest distress, and although the answer was not what he wished, it was the prayer that gave him the strength to fulfill God’s will. Similarly, we are reminded of the importance of human support in difficult times. Although the disciples failed, this moment shows that Jesus longed for human companionship and comfort – something we all seek in times of trouble.

In the end, it is Jesus who wakes his disciples and calls them to face the coming trial. While he is now fully ready to bear the cross, his disciples are not. This contrast between his spiritual strength and their weakness serves as a reminder of our own shortcomings and the need to constantly align ourselves with God’s will.

The events in Gethsemane and Jesus’ prayer have a deep connection to our daily lives and faith. They teach us several key lessons that relate to both our relationship with God and our approach to difficulties and challenges in everyday life.

1. Prayer and Trust in God: Jesus prayed in his greatest need. His prayer in Gethsemane shows that it is okay to lay our fears, worries, and desires before God. Even when the answers to our prayers are not what we want, we can trust that God’s plan is greater and that he gives us the strength to handle it. In everyday life, we often find ourselves in situations where we feel overwhelmed. In these moments, Gethsemane reminds us to seek refuge in prayer and trust in God’s will, even when we don’t fully understand it.

2. Submission to God’s Will: One of the greatest lessons from Gethsemane is Jesus’ surrender to the Father’s will. He is willing to follow God’s plan, even though it means suffering and death. In our daily lives, we often try to impose our own will and shape things according to our desires. Gethsemane teaches us that true submission to God means letting go of our own wishes and trusting that his plan is best for us.

3. Loneliness and Human Weakness: Jesus’ experience of loneliness and his disappointment with his sleeping disciples often mirrors our own experiences. We long for support and sometimes feel alone, especially in difficult times. Gethsemane shows us that even Jesus knew this isolation. At the same time, it reminds us that as believers, we should stand by each other in difficult times. In daily life, we can learn from Jesus’ patience, even when people disappoint us or do not provide the comfort we hope for.

4. The Role of the Holy Spirit: Jesus promises that the Holy Spirit will support those who are persecuted or oppressed. This gives us hope and comfort because we are not alone in our struggles. The Holy Spirit works within us, providing the wisdom and strength needed to overcome life’s challenges. This applies to our daily lives, where we often feel overwhelmed or uncertain. In such moments, we can trust the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

5. Perseverance in Difficult Times: In Gethsemane, Jesus demonstrates extraordinary endurance and a willingness to face even the greatest trial. This serves as a model for us to persevere in times of suffering and trials. Jesus’ example encourages us not to give up in our own difficult situations but to walk the path that God has prepared for us with patience and trust.

In summary, Gethsemane reminds us that the Christian life is not always easy and is often accompanied by difficulties. Yet, in these moments of distress and suffering, we can, like Jesus, find refuge in prayer, submit to God’s will, and be strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

In trusting God’s will, we find the strength to endure even the hardest trials of life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-taken-and-tried-11-3-gethsemane-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 10, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 14

¹ After two days was the feast of the passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death.

² But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people.

³ And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she brake the box, and poured it on his head.

⁴ And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made?

⁵ For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

⁶ And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on me.

⁷ For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye have not always.

⁸ She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.

⁹ Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

¹⁰ And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

¹¹ And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.

¹² And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the passover, his disciples said unto him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare that thou mayest eat the passover?

¹³ And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him.

¹⁴ And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?

¹⁵ And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us.

¹⁶ And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the passover.

¹⁷ And in the evening he cometh with the twelve.

¹⁸ And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me shall betray me.

¹⁹ And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I?

²⁰ And he answered and said unto them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.

²¹ The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.

²² And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.

²³ And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it.

²⁴ And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.

²⁵ Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

²⁶ And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

²⁷ And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.

²⁸ But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee.

²⁹ But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I.

³⁰ And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.

³¹ But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.

³² And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray.

³³ And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;

³⁴ And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.

³⁵ And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.

³⁶ And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.

³⁷ And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour?

³⁸ Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

³⁹ And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the same words.

⁴⁰ And when he returned, he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy,) neither wist they what to answer him.

⁴¹ And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

⁴² Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.

⁴³ And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.

⁴⁴ And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he; take him, and lead him away safely.

⁴⁵ And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, master; and kissed him.

⁴⁶ And they laid their hands on him, and took him.

⁴⁷ And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

⁴⁸ And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?

⁴⁹ I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled.

⁵⁰ And they all forsook him, and fled.

⁵¹ And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body; and the young men laid hold on him:

⁵² And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked.

⁵³ And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were assembled all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes.

⁵⁴ And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.

⁵⁵ And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none.

⁵⁶ For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together.

⁵⁷ And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying,

⁵⁸ We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.

⁵⁹ But neither so did their witness agree together.

⁶⁰ And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?

⁶¹ But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?

⁶² And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

⁶³ Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses?

⁶⁴ Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.

⁶⁵ And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.

⁶⁶ And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:

⁶⁷ And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.

⁶⁸ But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.

⁶⁹ And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them.

⁷⁰ And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilaean, and thy speech agreeth thereto.

⁷¹ But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak.

⁷² And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Mark chapter 14 represents one of the most dramatic sections of the Gospel, where the final hours of Jesus before His crucifixion are described. The chapter covers significant events such as the betrayal by Judas, the Last Supper, the prayer in Gethsemane, the arrest of Jesus, the trial before the Sanhedrin, and finally, Peter’s denial. These passages shed light on the deep human tragedy, but also on the fulfillment of God’s plan for the redemption of humanity. In every moment, there is tension between divine providence and human failure, yet Jesus’ unwavering devotion to the will of His Father remains central.

Commentary

The chapter begins with the plans of the chief priests and scribes to arrest and kill Jesus. These sinister intentions illustrate the tension that had been building between Jesus and the religious elite. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, becomes the instrument of this betrayal, representing the sorrowful climax of mistrust and rejection.

The anointing of Jesus in Bethany (verses 3-9) brings an unexpected turn. While some consider the woman’s act of pouring expensive nard oil on Jesus’ head as wasteful, Jesus views it as a prophetic gesture—a preparation for His burial. This event demonstrates the love and devotion surrounding Jesus, in contrast to the growing hostility against Him.

The Last Supper is a central moment in Mark 14 (verses 12-25), where Jesus shares bread and wine with His disciples, symbolizing His impending sacrifice. This scene is not only a celebration of the Passover but also the establishment of the new covenant through Jesus’ death. The betrayal by Judas is also revealed here, heightening the tension and foreshadowing the approaching disaster.

The prayer in Gethsemane (verses 32-42) shows Jesus in deep spiritual anguish as He submits to His Father’s will. This passage reveals both Jesus’ humanity and His divine resolve. The disciples, however, repeatedly fall asleep, symbolizing the weakness of the human spirit in the face of great trials. Jesus prays, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you; take this cup from me! Yet not what I will, but what you will!” – a profound demonstration of His complete obedience.

The subsequent arrest of Jesus (verses 43-52) and the trial before the Sanhedrin (verses 53-65) expose the harshness of the religious leaders and their willingness to condemn the innocent. While Jesus remains silent and accepts His condemnation, Peter’s denial (verses 66-72) reveals the fragility of the human character, even among those closest to Him. Peter’s threefold denial, followed by bitter tears of repentance, illustrates the profound tension between human weakness and divine forgiveness.

Summary

Mark chapter 14 narrates the final critical moments in Jesus’ life, from the planning of His betrayal to Peter’s denial. It covers central events such as the Last Supper, the prayer in Gethsemane, and the trial before the Sanhedrin, marking the climax of the Gospel. Each of these events demonstrates the tension between divine providence and human failure, yet divine redemption remains at the center. Jesus submits to the Father’s will as He prepares for His impending death. The chapter reminds us of the fragility of the human spirit, but also of the boundless love and forgiveness revealed through Jesus’ sacrifice.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/10-09-2024-mark-chapter-14-believe-his-prophets/

11.2 The Last Supper
The New Covenant: Jesus’ Sacrifice and the Promise of Salvation

Read Mark 14:22-31 and Exodus 24:8. What major significance for the Christian faith is found in this account?

The passage from Mark 14:22–31 and Exodus 24:8 reveals central aspects of the Christian faith and has profound significance for understanding the Lord’s Supper.

The Last Supper takes place on the first day of Unleavened Bread, at the time when the Passover lamb is sacrificed. This is more than just a traditional meal; it marks the introduction of a new memorial service by Jesus. On this evening, a transition occurs from the Jewish Passover to the institution of the New Covenant. The New Covenant is not sealed with the blood of a Passover lamb but with the blood of Jesus Himself. This directly relates to the sealing of the Old Covenant in Exodus 24:8, where Moses sprinkles the people with the blood of sacrifices and declares: “This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you.”

Jesus uses this evening to convey a profound meaning: He Himself is the “Lamb of God” (cf. John 1:29), whose blood seals the New Covenant. The bread He breaks symbolizes His body, and the cup represents His blood, shed for many (Mark 14:24). This signifies a fundamental change in the relationship between God and humanity. The New Covenant fulfills the promises of the Old Testament and is established through Jesus’ sacrifice.

Amidst this solemn moment, Jesus announces that all His disciples will abandon Him. He quotes Zechariah 13:7, which speaks of the striking of the shepherd and the scattering of the sheep. This grim prediction reflects human weakness and the failure that Jesus will experience. Despite this dark prophecy, Jesus adds a message of hope: the prediction of His resurrection and the promise that He will meet His disciples in Galilee. This underscores the importance of the resurrection as a sign of new life and hope.

The prediction that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows twice is another central point. This announcement highlights human frailty and the challenge of faith in times of trial. It plays a key role in the Passion narrative and Peter’s denial, showing the depth of divine providence and human weakness.

Overall, the Last Supper reveals a fundamental transformation in the relationship between God and humanity through Jesus’ sacrifice. It stands at the heart of Christian faith by replacing the old sacrifices and establishing the New Covenant through the blood of Christ. At the same time, it is a moment of reverence and hope, reminding us of the profound significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Have you ever promised God to do or not do something, and then failed to keep that promise? What can you learn from this?

Yes, this is an experience many believers have had when they promise God something but fail to keep it. In moments of devotion or repentance, there is often a strong desire to change or commit to God, but over time, it becomes difficult to remain faithful to these resolutions.

From such situations, we can learn valuable lessons:

1. Human Weakness: These experiences show us how limited our human strength is. Even the best intentions can fail due to temptations, fatigue, or neglect. It reminds us that we are dependent on God’s grace and strength in all things to do what is right.

2. Humility: Failing to keep promises teaches us humility. It shows that we are flawed people who need forgiveness and patience—both from God and from ourselves.

3. Grace and Forgiveness: Such moments emphasize the importance of God’s grace. Even when we fail, God forgives us if we sincerely repent. This helps us not to give up but to keep trying, trusting in God’s support.

4. Dependence on God: When we fail, we learn that we cannot rely on our own strength alone. We must ask God for guidance and support to grow in our spiritual life.

5. Patience with Ourselves: Repeating mistakes can be frustrating, but it also gives us the opportunity to practice patience with ourselves and recognize the constant need for growth and maturity.

Through these experiences, we learn that our faith and relationship with God is a journey, not a one-time success. It’s about returning again and again, continuing to learn, and allowing ourselves to be shaped by God’s hands.

The connection between the Last Supper and our daily lives and faith lies in the deep symbolism of Jesus’ sacrifice and the introduction of the New Covenant, calling us to self-reflection and a realignment in our faith.

1. The New Covenant and Our Daily Relationship with God: The Last Supper marks the beginning of a new covenant centered on Jesus’ sacrifice. In everyday life, this reminds us that our relationship with God is not based on our own achievements but on His grace and the sacrifice of Christ. It calls us to live our lives in gratitude and dedication, knowing that our salvation is secured through Jesus.

2. Human Weakness and the Failure of the Disciples: In Mark 14:22–31, we see how Jesus predicts that His disciples will abandon Him. This reflects our own human weakness when, despite our best intentions, we often fail to obey God or keep our promises. In daily life, this understanding can help us be patient with ourselves and trust in God’s grace instead of condemning ourselves for our mistakes.

3. Hope Through Jesus’ Resurrection: Despite the grim prediction that His disciples will abandon Him, Jesus gives them the hope of His resurrection. For us in daily life, this means that even in moments of failure, despair, or suffering, the hope of renewal and forgiveness through Jesus is always present. The resurrection reminds us that God always offers us the chance to begin anew.

4. The Significance of the Lord’s Supper in the Life of Faith: The Lord’s Supper is not just a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice, but also a constant invitation to renew our connection with Him. When we take the bread and cup, we affirm our trust in the New Covenant and our dependence on God’s grace. This regular practice can help us focus on the essentials of faith: love, dedication, and communion with God.

5. Forgiveness and Restoration: The prediction of Peter’s denial shows that even those closest to Jesus can fail. Yet, after his failure, Peter experiences forgiveness and later becomes a significant leader in the early church. This teaches us that we, too, can be restored after failure and that God can do great things through us when we return to Him.

In summary, the Last Supper connects our daily spiritual journey with the constant reminder of God’s grace, forgiveness, and the hope we have through Jesus Christ. Our faith life, like that of the disciples, is a journey full of highs and lows, but it is always supported by the promise of redemption and the love of God.

Every day is a new opportunity to experience God’s grace and grow in His love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-taken-and-tried-11-2-the-last-supper-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 9, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 13

¹ And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!

² And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

³ And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately,

⁴ Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?

⁵ And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:

⁶ For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

⁷ And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.

⁸ For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.

⁹ But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them.

¹⁰ And the gospel must first be published among all nations.

¹¹ But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.

¹² Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.

¹³ And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

¹⁴ But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:

¹⁵ And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the house, neither enter therein, to take any thing out of his house:

¹⁶ And let him that is in the field not turn back again for to take up his garment.

¹⁷ But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!

¹⁸ And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter.

¹⁹ For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be.

²⁰ And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect’s sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.

²¹ And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not:

²² For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.

²³ But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.

²⁴ But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,

²⁵ And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.

²⁶ And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.

²⁷ And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.

²⁸ Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:

²⁹ So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors.

³⁰ Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done.

³¹ Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

³² But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

³³ Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

³⁴ For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.

³⁵ Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:

³⁶ Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.

³⁷ And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Mark chapter 13 is a significant prophetic discourse by Jesus, commonly referred to as the “Olivet Discourse” or the “Apocalyptic Discourse.” In this chapter, Jesus speaks about the coming destruction of the temple, the signs of the times, the impending suffering of believers, and his final return. These words were directed at his disciples to prepare them for difficult times and to emphasize the urgency of vigilance and readiness. The text contains elements of warning, comfort, and encouragement for believers who must endure the trials of life.

Commentary

Jesus begins this discourse with a powerful prediction: the magnificent temple, the pride of the Jewish nation, would be destroyed, with not one stone left upon another (verses 1-2). This statement shocks the disciples and prompts them to ask “when” and “how.” Their curiosity is understandable, as the temple was the center of their religious world. However, Jesus shifts their focus from the physical destruction to the spiritual challenges that are to come.

He speaks of false messiahs, wars, earthquakes, and persecutions (verses 5-13), which the disciples should expect. These events, however, are merely the “beginning of the birth pains,” not the end itself. A key point here is that the Gospel must first be preached to all nations before the end will come (verse 10). Followers of Christ will face persecution and betrayal, but they are called to endure in faith, as the Holy Spirit will guide them through these trials (verse 11).

The “abomination of desolation” (verse 14) is a direct reference to the book of Daniel and points to a time of great tribulation that will force people to flee. Jesus describes this period as an unprecedented time of suffering, which will be shortened for the sake of the elect (verse 20). Here, it becomes clear that during the end times, false prophets and false messiahs will arise, attempting to deceive even the elect.

At the climax of this discourse, Jesus announces his own return (verse 26). The coming of the Son of Man will be with great power and glory, and he will gather his elect from the ends of the earth (verses 26-27). This section offers believers hope, that despite all the trials and hardships they must endure, the return of Christ will ultimately be the final resolution.

Finally, Jesus calls for vigilance (verses 33-37). No one knows the exact time of his return, so believers must always be ready. This call to constant watchfulness, illustrated by the parable of the fig tree and the house owner, emphasizes the urgency of being prepared at every moment.

Summary

Mark chapter 13 presents Jesus’ end-time discourse, where he prepares his disciples for coming persecutions, deceptions, and disasters. He predicts the fall of the temple and stresses the importance of being watchful in the face of false prophets and false Christs. At the same time, he gives believers hope with the promise of his glorious return. Jesus emphasizes the urgency of remaining vigilant, as the exact time of his return is unknown. This discourse challenges believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst persecution and suffering, while preparing for the ultimate salvation and the return of Christ.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/9-09-2024-mark-chapter-13-believe-his-prophets/