1.4 Jesus’ Baptism
The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus

Read Mark 1:9-13. Who is present at the baptism of Jesus and what happens?

In Mark 1:9-13, the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan is described. Here are the main points:

• John the Baptist baptizes Jesus in the Jordan.

• As Jesus comes up out of the water, he sees the heavens torn apart and the Holy Spirit descending like a dove upon him.

• A voice from heaven says, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11).

The baptism of Jesus is a significant event in the New Testament, marking the beginning of his public ministry. Several important aspects and implications can be derived from this scene:

1. Presence of the Trinity:

   • At Jesus’ baptism, all three persons of the Trinity are present: God the Father speaks from heaven, the Holy Spirit descends in the form of a dove, and Jesus, the Son, is baptized. This attests to the divine confirmation and support of Jesus’ ministry.

2. Confirmation and Identity of Jesus:

   • The Father’s voice confirms Jesus’ identity as His beloved Son. This divine affirmation gives Jesus authority and indicates that his ministry aligns with God’s will.

3. Symbolism and Significance of Baptism:

   • Jesus’ baptism is a sign of humility and obedience. Although Jesus is sinless, he undergoes baptism to identify with humanity and set an example for us.

   • The baptism also symbolizes the beginning of a new era in God’s salvation plan, with Jesus acting as the promised Messiah and Redeemer of humanity.

4. The Temptation in the Wilderness:

   • Immediately after the baptism, Jesus is driven by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness, where he is tempted by Satan for 40 days. This shows that Jesus, though divine, also experiences human weaknesses and temptations.

   • The presence of wild animals and angels serving him highlights the struggle and support Jesus will encounter in his ministry.

5. Humanity and Divinity of Jesus:

   • The baptism and temptation underscore Jesus’ dual nature: he is both fully divine and fully human. He experiences human challenges and temptations but remains sinless and in perfect communion with God.

   • These contrasts point to Jesus’ unique position as the mediator between God and humanity. He is our brother, sharing in our sufferings, and our Redeemer, who can save us through his divinity.

Jesus, although he was God, took on our humanity to save us. What does this tell us about the amazing love of God?

Jesus, although he was God, took on our humanity to save us. This fact reveals profound truths about the amazing love of God.

1. Self-Sacrifice:

   • Divine Humility: That Jesus, the Son of God, was willing to leave his divine glory and become human demonstrates incredible humility and self-sacrifice. He gave up his heavenly throne and took the form of a servant to save us.

   • Willingness to Suffer: Jesus’ willingness to experience human suffering and temptation shows the depth of his love. He voluntarily endured pain, deprivation, and ultimately death on the cross to redeem humanity.

2. Identification with Humanity:

   • Empathy and Understanding: By becoming human, Jesus can fully identify with our experiences, pains, and challenges. He understands our weaknesses and struggles because he has lived through them himself.

   • Closeness to Humanity: Through his incarnation, God bridged the gap between the heavenly and the earthly. Jesus lived among us, as one of us, showing that God wants to be close to us and have a personal relationship with us.

3. Perfect Love and Grace:

   • Unconditional Love: Jesus’ incarnation is the highest expression of God’s unconditional love. He loves us so much that he was willing to sacrifice everything to save us and reconcile us with God.

   • Grace and Forgiveness: Through his death and resurrection, Jesus paved the way for our redemption and forgiveness. His grace allows us to enter into a relationship with God despite our sins and mistakes.

4. Example and Model:

   • Way of Life and Service: Jesus’ life serves as the perfect example for us. His humility, service to others, and unconditional love are virtues we should emulate.

   • Call to Follow: Jesus’ incarnation and sacrifice call us to also dedicate our lives to serving God and others by sharing his love and message.

The baptism of Jesus, as described in Mark 1:9-13, has profound implications and connections to our daily lives and faith. These events teach us valuable lessons about God’s plan, Jesus’ role, and our own relationship with God.

1. Presence of the Trinity:

   • Daily Life: In our daily lives, we can experience the presence and guidance of God. Jesus’ baptism shows that God, in all His aspects (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), is active in our lives.

   • Faith: The Trinity reminds us that we are not alone. God is with us, guiding us through His Spirit, loving us as a Father, and having established a relationship with us through Jesus.

2. Confirmation and Identity of Jesus:

   • Daily Life: Every person longs for recognition and affirmation. Jesus’ baptism shows that God loves and acknowledges us as His children.

   • Faith: God’s voice, confirming Jesus as His beloved Son, assures us that through Christ, we too are beloved children of God.

3. Symbolism and Significance of Baptism:

   • Daily Life: Baptism is a sign of cleansing, new beginnings, and belonging to God’s family. It calls us to demonstrate humility and obedience in our lives.

   • Faith: Jesus’ baptism symbolizes his obedience to God’s will. It reminds us that our own baptism is a sign of our dedication and obedience to God.

4. The Temptation in the Wilderness:

   • Daily Life: Every person faces temptations and challenges. Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness shows that he also faced difficulties and that it is possible to resist them with God’s help.

   • Faith: Jesus’ victory over temptation gives us hope and strength. It shows us that with God’s help and through the Holy Spirit, we can overcome any challenge.

5. Humanity and Divinity of Jesus:

   • Daily Life: Jesus’ dual nature—fully human and fully divine—shows that he understands our struggles and sympathizes with us. He knows our weaknesses and can help us perfectly.

   • Faith: This truth encourages us to have both trust and reverence in our relationship with God. Jesus is our brother and friend, but also our Lord and Savior.

6. Self-Sacrifice and Humility:

   • Daily Life: Jesus’ humility and self-sacrifice are examples for how we should live our lives. We are called to serve others and give our lives for others.

   • Faith: Jesus left his divine glory and became human to save us. This incredible humility shows the depth of God’s love and calls us to live humbly and selflessly in a similar way.

7. Perfect Love and Grace:

   • Daily Life: In our relationships with others, we should reflect God’s unconditional love and grace. Forgiveness and love should be central aspects of our lives.

   • Faith: Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have access to God’s grace and forgiveness. This truth assures us that despite our faults, we are loved and accepted.

8. Example and Model:

   • Daily Life: Jesus’ life serves as the perfect example for our own lives. His love, service, and willingness to sacrifice are virtues we should emulate.

   • Faith: We are called to follow Jesus’ example by dedicating our lives to serving God and others. Sharing his message of love and forgiveness is our mission.

In summary, the baptism of Jesus shows us the essential connection of humility, obedience, divine affirmation, and overcoming temptations in our faith lives. It reminds us that Jesus, our Lord and Savior, is also our brother and model who guides and supports us in all aspects of our lives.

The baptism of Jesus reveals the deep connection between humanity and divinity and reminds us that through humility, obedience, and trust in God’s love, we should lead our lives in service to others.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-1-4-jesus-baptism/

1.3 The Messenger
John the Baptist: Preparing the Way

Read Mark 1:1-8. Who are the people in these verses? What do they say and do?

In these verses, there are three main characters: Jesus Christ, God the Father, and John the Baptist.

1. Jesus Christ:

   • Mention: Jesus is introduced in Mark 1:1 as the Christ, the Son of God.

   • Significance: This mention lays the foundation for the entire Gospel of Mark, which describes the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

2. God the Father:

   • Implied: God the Father is implied in the words of Mark 1:2, as the Old Testament prophecies quoted by Mark point to God’s plan and actions.

   • Role: God the Father is the one who prepares the way for the coming of His Son and has sent the prophets to announce this message.

3. John the Baptist:

   • Role: John the Baptist is described as the messenger and preacher who is to prepare the way for Jesus.

   • Actions: John preaches in the wilderness, calling people to repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins (Mark 1:4). He wears simple clothing made of camel hair and lives modestly (Mark 1:6).

   • Statements: John emphasizes that someone mightier than he will come after him, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:7-8).

In Mark 1:1-8, we are introduced to Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Mark begins his Gospel with a powerful statement that underscores the significance and purpose of his writing. God the Father is implicitly present through the fulfillment of prophecies pointing to the coming of Jesus.

John the Baptist plays a central role as the messenger preparing the way for Jesus. His message of repentance and baptism prepares people to receive Jesus. John’s life and preaching exemplify dedication and humility. He consistently points to the coming Messiah and acknowledges his own role as a forerunner.

The Old Testament quotes in Mark 1:2-3 link the events of the New Testament with the prophecies of the Old Testament. These connections show that the coming of Jesus is part of God’s grand plan of salvation, announced through the ages.

Overall, this passage teaches us about the importance of preparation and testimony. John the Baptist serves as a model for how we can point to Jesus through our lives and words. It reminds us that we all have a role in God’s plan and must be ready to fulfill that role by pointing others to the Messiah and preparing their hearts for Him.

Read Exodus 23:20; Isaiah 40:3; and Malachi 3:1. What do these three passages have in common?

These three passages share several common elements:

1. Forerunner:

   • Exodus 23:20: An angel is sent to go before the people of Israel and prepare the way.

   • Isaiah 40:3: A voice is described calling in the wilderness to prepare the way of the Lord.

   • Malachi 3:1: A messenger is announced who will prepare the way before the Lord.

2. Preparation of the Way:

   • All three passages emphasize the preparation of a way or journey. This preparation is crucial for the Lord to travel His path.

   • The angel in Exodus, the voice in Isaiah, and the messenger in Malachi all serve to prepare the way for something greater and more important.

3. Divine Guidance:

   • Each passage involves divine guidance and God’s intervention in the history of His people. God sends His messengers to carry out His plan and guide His people.

The text in Isaiah 40:3 has many connections to the work of John the Baptist and also focuses on the way of the Lord. In the Gospel of Mark, the Lord Jesus is on a journey. The fast-paced narrative reinforces the sense of this journey, a journey leading to the cross and His sacrificial death for us.

But before Jesus reaches the cross, much must happen. The journey has just begun, and Mark will tell us all about it.

Following the Old Testament quotation in Mark 1:2-3, John the Baptist calls for repentance, turning away from sin, and turning back to God (Mark 1:4). Clothed like the prophet Elijah of old (cf. 2 Kings 1:8), he speaks in Mark 1:7-8 of one who is mightier than he is, whose sandal strap he is not worthy to loosen. This statement shows his high regard for Jesus.

These passages highlight that John the Baptist is a key figure in preparing the way for Jesus Christ. He fulfills Old Testament prophecies and serves as a link between the prophets and the Messiah. The emphasis on repentance and turning back prepares people’s hearts to receive Jesus as the Messiah.

In summary, these Old Testament quotes and their fulfillment in John the Baptist show that God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ was carefully prepared. John’s role is to prepare people for this significant journey that Jesus will undertake – a journey that ultimately leads to the salvation of humanity.

The story of John the Baptist and his role as the forerunner of Jesus has deep connections to our daily lives and faith. Here are some central aspects:

1. Preparation and Dedication:

   • Daily Life: In our daily lives, preparation is often the key to success. Whether it’s planning a project, preparing for an important event, or achieving personal goals, proper preparation is crucial.

   • Faith: In faith, preparation means spiritually preparing to encounter God. John the Baptist calls for repentance and turning back, which also encourages us to reflect on our lives, recognize our mistakes, and prepare spiritually.

2. Testimony and Humility:

   • Daily Life: In our daily lives, we can be an example to others through our words and actions. A testimony to our beliefs and values can have a positive influence on our environment.

   • Faith: John the Baptist is an example of humility and dedication. He recognizes his role and always points to the coming Messiah. We are also called to live humbly and point to Jesus by living and sharing our faith authentically.

3. Repentance and Turning Back:

   • Daily Life: Mistakes and setbacks are part of life. More important than the mistakes themselves is our response to them. Repentance and the willingness to learn from mistakes are crucial for personal growth.

   • Faith: John’s message of repentance is central to the Christian life. It reminds us that turning away from sin and turning back to God is the foundation for a deep and authentic relationship with Him.

4. Role in God’s Plan:

   • Daily Life: Every person has a unique role and task in life. Recognizing and fulfilling this role can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life.

   • Faith: John the Baptist had a clear calling to prepare the way for Jesus. We also have a role in God’s plan. It is up to us to recognize this role and fulfill it faithfully by using our gifts and talents in service to God and others.

5. Divine Guidance and Trust:

   • Daily Life: Trust in God’s plan and guidance can give us stability in times of uncertainty and change. It allows us to move forward with confidence and hope.

   • Faith: The Old Testament prophecies and their fulfillment in John the Baptist and Jesus Christ show us that God has a sovereign plan. Trust in this plan can help us remain firm in faith even in difficult times.

In summary, the story of John the Baptist shows us the importance of preparation, dedication, humility, repentance, and trust in our faith journey. It reminds us that we all have a role in God’s grand plan and that we must be ready to fulfill this role. By pointing to Jesus like John, and preparing people’s hearts for Him, we can actively participate in God’s work.

The role of John the Baptist as the forerunner reminds us that through our dedication and testimony, we too can prepare the way for others to encounter Jesus.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-1-3-the-messenger/

1.2 A Second Chance
The Redemption of John Mark

Read Acts 15:36–39. Why did Paul reject John Mark, and why did Barnabas give him a second chance?

In Acts 15:36–39, we see a significant disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. Paul rejected John Mark because he had previously withdrawn from them and had not continued the missionary work (Acts 15:38). Given the rough and demanding conditions of missionary life in the ancient world, as described in 2 Corinthians 11:23–28, Paul depended on reliable coworkers. From his perspective, someone who gave up so quickly could not provide valuable support in the fight against evil forces.

Barnabas, on the other hand, had a different perspective. He saw potential in John Mark and wanted to give him a second chance. This differing viewpoint led to a deep dispute between Paul and Barnabas, resulting in their separation. Paul took Silas with him, while Barnabas decided to take Mark.

This story illustrates the importance of grace and trust in the possibility of change. While Paul was pragmatic and strict in his selection, Barnabas showed compassion and hope. Barnabas’ decision to give Mark a second chance highlights the need to not write people off because of a failure but to give them opportunities for restoration and growth.

Acts does not provide a detailed explanation for Barnabas’ decision, but his willingness to take Mark speaks volumes about his character and his belief in people’s potential. It is a powerful reminder that we all need support and encouragement on our faith journey, especially after a failure.

The story of John Mark shows us that failure does not mean the end, but it can be a new beginning if someone gives us a second chance. This should encourage us to be gracious and supportive in our own lives and in dealing with others.

Read Colossians 4:10, 2 Timothy 4:11, Philemon 24, and 1 Peter 5:13. What details about Mark’s recovery do these verses suggest?

The mention of John Mark in Colossians 4:10, 2 Timothy 4:11, Philemon 24, and 1 Peter 5:13 shows a remarkable recovery and development of his character and ministry. In these verses, it becomes clear that Mark, who was once rejected by Paul, became a valued coworker and trusted companion. Paul explicitly refers to him as useful for ministry and requests Timothy to bring Mark to him, highlighting his significant value and importance to the missionary work.

This transformation was likely made possible through the support and trust that Barnabas placed in him. Barnabas saw the potential in Mark and was willing to give him a second chance despite his previous failure. This decision demonstrates the power of forgiveness and second chances. It reminds us that people can change and grow when they receive the right support and encouragement.

Peter’s close relationship with Mark, as mentioned in 1 Peter 5:13, further emphasizes Mark’s significance in early Christianity. Mark was not just a companion but also a close friend and coworker of the apostles, highlighting his influence and role in the early church.

The story of John Mark, as described in Acts 15:36–39, has deep connections to our daily lives and faith. It teaches us valuable lessons about the importance of grace, forgiveness, and the power of second chances.

1. Grace and Forgiveness in Everyday Life:

   • Daily Life: Each of us has experienced moments of failure or disappointment in our lives, whether in our careers, relationships, or personal projects. The ability to forgive ourselves and others is crucial for moving forward and learning from mistakes.

   • Faith: In Christian faith, forgiveness is a central value. The story of Mark reminds us that God continually gives us new chances to improve our lives and draw closer to Him. It encourages us to extend the same grace to others.

2. Support and Encouragement:

   • Daily Life: In difficult times, support from family, friends, and colleagues is invaluable. This support can help us recover from setbacks and keep going.

   • Faith: Barnabas’ decision to give Mark a second chance highlights the importance of encouragement in our faith journey. It reminds us of the importance of standing together as a community and supporting one another.

3. Change and Growth:

   • Daily Life: People have the ability to change and grow when they receive the right support and encouragement. This is true for both personal and professional development.

   • Faith: The transformation of John Mark shows that no one should be defined by a mistake. With faith and support, anyone can realize their potential and make a positive contribution. This encourages us not to judge others based on their past but to give them opportunities for improvement.

4. Importance of Community:

   • Daily Life: Communities, whether in neighborhoods, workplaces, or social groups, provide a network of support and encouragement. They help us feel safe and secure.

   • Faith: The close relationship between Mark and other apostles highlights the importance of church community. These relationships are crucial for spiritual growth and support in faith.

5. Trust and Responsibility:

   • Daily Life: Taking responsibility and earning trust are important steps towards personal and professional maturity. Mistakes should be viewed as learning opportunities.

   • Faith: The story of Mark teaches us that trust and responsibility are vital in our faith life. It shows that through trust and support, we are able to find and fulfill our role in God’s service.

These principles and lessons are not only relevant to life in the ancient world but also to our lives today. They remind us of the importance of extending grace, support, and trust to others, and that each of us has the opportunity to grow and improve through second chances and forgiveness.

The story of John Mark shows us that failure does not mean the end, but it can be a new beginning if someone gives us a second chance.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-1-2-a-second-chance/

1.1 The Failed Missionary
Introduction and Early Setback of John Mark

Read Acts 12:12. How is Mark introduced in the book of Acts?

John Mark, the most likely author of the Gospel of Mark, is introduced in an interesting way in the book of Acts. In Acts 12:12, he is presented as the son of Mary, an obviously wealthy supporter of the church who hosted a famous prayer meeting in her house. Although he does not play an active role in this passage, his introduction lays the foundation for his later connection with Barnabas and Saul. The events surrounding Peter’s spectacular prison escape and the contrasting incidents involving the death of Herod are rich in meaning and even humorous contrasts between Peter and the king. These stories provide a deep insight into the dynamic development of the early Christian community and the individual challenges its members faced.

Read Acts 13:1–5, 13. How did John Mark get attached to Saul and Barnabas, and what was the outcome?

John Mark plays a remarkable, albeit brief, role in the first missionary journey of Saul and Barnabas as described in Acts 13. His introduction in this narrative occurs in verse 5, where he is simply mentioned as a helper or servant. This position highlights his support for the main missionaries without taking a leading role.

The abrupt end of his participation in the missionary journey, as described in verse 13, raises many questions since no reasons for his return to Jerusalem are given. This lack of detail leaves much room for speculation and interpretation regarding his motives. Ellen G. White offers a possible explanation, suggesting that Mark was overwhelmed by fear and discouragement. This reaction could be due to his unfamiliarity with the hardships and dangers of missionary life, leading him to withdraw.

The brief mention of John Mark and his subsequent withdrawal underline the challenges and uncertainties faced by early Christians. It also shows the human side of the Acts of the Apostles, where even the most dedicated followers can be overwhelmed by fear and doubt at times. This episode teaches us that setbacks and difficulties are part of the journey of faith and that it is important to learn from them and grow.

The story of John Mark has profound connections to our daily lives and faith. It teaches us valuable lessons about the importance of grace, forgiveness, and the power of second chances.

1. Humility and Recognition of One’s Limits:

   • Daily Life: In everyday life, we often recognize our own limits and need to learn how to deal with them. This can mean seeking help or setting realistic goals.

   • Faith: In our faith journey, humility shows us that we are dependent on God’s help and guidance. It reminds us that we don’t have to face everything alone.

2. Growth Through Setbacks:

   • Daily Life: Mistakes and failures offer us opportunities to learn and grow. They help us become more resilient and wiser.

   • Faith: Setbacks in our faith can bring us closer to God if we learn to trust Him and accept His plans.

3. Importance of Community:

   • Daily Life: Support from family and friends is essential in difficult times. A strong community helps us overcome challenges.

   • Faith: The church community provides encouragement and support, especially when we struggle with doubts and difficulties.

4. Strength in Prayer:

   • Daily Life: Prayer can give us peace and clarity in stressful times. It helps us organize our thoughts and find tranquility.

   • Faith: In prayer, we find a direct connection to God. It allows us to express our fears and gratitude and seek His guidance.

5. Self-Reflection and Trust in God’s Plan:

   • Daily Life: Regular self-reflection helps us rethink and adjust our goals and actions.

   • Faith: Trust in God’s plan gives us confidence that even difficult times and failures are part of a greater plan.

The story of John Mark teaches us that we should not give up despite setbacks and challenges on our journey of faith. Instead, we should use these experiences as opportunities to learn and grow, both in our daily lives and in our faith.

Setbacks are not defeats, but steps of learning on the path to a stronger faith and a more fulfilling life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-1-1-the-failed-missionary/