8.5 “What Do You Want Me to Do for You?”
Faith That Sees: Bartimaeus’ Persistent Cry for Healing

Read Mark 10:46–52. How did Bartimaeus respond when Jesus passed by?

In Mark 10:46–52, the blind Bartimaeus demonstrates a powerful example of faith, persistence, and a deep yearning for healing. As Jesus is leaving Jericho and passing by Bartimaeus, the blind beggar does not let his situation discourage him. Instead, he cries out loudly, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, Bartimaeus shouts all the more, showing his unwavering belief that Jesus can help him.

Bartimaeus’ cry is more than a plea for help; it is a confession of faith that Jesus is the promised Messiah, the “Son of David.” This title indicates Bartimaeus’ recognition of Jesus not merely as a healer but as the awaited Savior of Israel.

Another significant aspect of Bartimaeus’ response is his symbolic act of throwing off his cloak when Jesus calls him. In his circumstances, the cloak might have been his most valuable possession and protection from the cold, yet Bartimaeus discards it without hesitation. This act signifies his trust that his encounter with Jesus will bring about a transformation—healing and change that he believes are certain.

When Jesus asks him, “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus responds directly and without hesitation, “Rabboni, let me recover my sight.” This straightforward request reveals his deep desire for healing and his confidence that Jesus can grant this miracle. Jesus immediately fulfills this request; Bartimaeus is healed and follows Jesus on His way.

This story is more than a healing narrative; it is a lesson on what it means to follow Jesus. Bartimaeus shows us that discipleship involves approaching Jesus with faith and trust, letting go of what holds us back, and following Him when He calls. It is an example of how we can see the world with new eyes—through the lens of faith that allows us to follow Jesus along the path He has prepared for us.

Have you ever cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”? What happened, and what did you learn from that experience?

When we cry out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” from the depths of our hearts, we are entering a posture of faith and dependence on God. It is a moment of complete surrender and acknowledgment that we need His grace and help to overcome what troubles us.

In my own life, when I have prayed similar prayers—in times of distress, desperation, or deep need for God’s intervention—I have often experienced God’s power bringing comfort, guidance, or even unexpected solutions. Such experiences teach us several valuable lessons:

1. God Hears Our Prayers:

   • It is comforting to know that God hears our prayers, especially when they come from a place of deep need. Even if the answer is not immediately visible, we can trust that God knows our concerns and will respond in His way and time.

2. Faith Requires Persistence:

   • Just as Bartimaeus did not stop calling out despite obstacles, faith calls us to be persistent. Sometimes we need to endure and continue praying, even when circumstances seem discouraging. This persistence is often key to experiencing God’s work in our lives.

3. God Responds to Faith:

   • Our experiences show that God responds to our faith. When we approach Him with trust, believing that He hears and will act, we often encounter His grace and care in special ways.

4. Letting Go and Trusting:

   • Sometimes calling out to God requires us, like Bartimaeus, to “throw off our cloak”—to let go of what gives us security in order to trust fully in God. This surrender can be transformative, teaching us to relinquish control and embrace God’s plan.

5. Change Follows God’s Intervention:

   • When we experience God’s intervention, our situation often changes, but so does our inner self. We are strengthened in faith, and our perspective on life and God’s workings becomes clearer and deeper.

From such experiences, we learn that God is faithful and that His grace can carry us through every situation. We recognize that our cries to Him are never in vain but bring us closer to Him and help us see the world with new eyes—eyes that are focused on Jesus, the “Son of David,” who loves us and cares for us.

The story of Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46–52 has a profound connection to our everyday lives and faith by teaching us about remaining persistent in faith amid challenges and confidently calling out for God’s help. Here are some key points that highlight this connection:

1. Persistence in Prayer:

   • Bartimaeus shows us that we should not give up calling out to God in our daily lives, even when circumstances seem unfavorable. Whether facing health, emotional, or material issues, the story encourages us to remain persistent in prayer. This persistence demonstrates our trust that God hears and will intervene, even if it is not immediately apparent.

2. Living Out Faith:

   • Bartimaeus’ faith in Jesus as the “Son of David” reminds us that our faith should be reflected in our actions. In everyday life, this means relying on God’s promises and aligning our lives with our convictions, even when circumstances challenge our beliefs.

3. Trust in God’s Plan:

   • Bartimaeus’ act of throwing off his cloak symbolizes letting go of security and protection to follow Jesus. This teaches us that true trust involves being willing to let go of the familiar and secure to follow God’s plans. In daily life, this might mean embracing new paths, even when they come with uncertainty, trusting that God provides for us.

4. Open Eyes to God’s Work:

   • Bartimaeus’ healing symbolizes seeing the world through the lens of faith. In our daily lives, we should ask God to help us recognize His hand in both small and large matters, adjusting our perspective to be aware of His guidance and grace.

5. Discipleship as a Response to Grace:

   • After Bartimaeus is healed, he follows Jesus on His way. This demonstrates that genuine discipleship is a response to God’s grace. In our lives, we should consider how we respond to God’s goodness and intervention by aligning our actions with His teachings and following Him in all we do.

Through this story, we are encouraged to actively live out our faith in daily life, with the assurance that God hears us, meets us, and leads us—regardless of our circumstances. We learn that faith is not passive but an active, powerful response to God’s presence and work in our lives.

Remain persistent in faith, for God hears your call and will respond in His time.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-teaching-disciples-part-2-8-5-what-do-you-want-me-to-do-for-you-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

August 22, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Matthew Chapter 23

¹ Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,

² Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat:

³ All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

⁴ For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.

⁵ But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,

⁶ And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,

⁷ And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.

⁸ But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.

⁹ And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.

¹⁰ Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.

¹¹ But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.

¹² And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.

¹³ But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

¹⁴ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.

¹⁵ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.

¹⁶ Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!

¹⁷ Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?

¹⁸ And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.

¹⁹ Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?

²⁰ Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.

²¹ And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.

²² And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.

²³ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

²⁴ Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel.

²⁵ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.

²⁶ Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.

²⁷ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.

²⁸ Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.

²⁹ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,

³⁰ And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.

³¹ Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.

³² Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.

³³ Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?

³⁴ Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city:

³⁵ That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.

³⁶ Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation.

³⁷ O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!

³⁸ Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.

³⁹ For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

Matthew Chapter 23 is a chapter filled with urgent warnings and sharp criticism directed by Jesus towards the scribes and Pharisees. It represents one of the strongest denunciations of religious hypocrisy and false piety in the New Testament. This chapter portrays Jesus as a prophet who denounces the injustices within the religious establishment of His time and as a teacher warning His disciples against making the same errors.

Commentary:

In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a series of “woes” against the scribes and Pharisees. These accusations expose their hypocrisy, greed, and abuse of religious authority. Jesus criticizes them not for their adherence to the Law of Moses but for the discrepancy between their words and actions. They impose heavy burdens on others without being willing to bear them themselves. Their religious practices are more about self-promotion than true piety, and they seek honor and recognition from people rather than from God.

A central theme of this chapter is the demand for humility. Jesus emphasizes that true greatness lies in serving others and warns His disciples against seeking titles and honors that grant power over others. He makes it clear that all people are brothers and that only God and Christ should be recognized as master and father.

The harshest condemnation is reserved for the blindness and hypocrisy of the religious leaders. Jesus compares them to whitewashed tombs, which appear beautiful on the outside but are full of deadness and impurity on the inside. This metaphor illustrates the disparity between their outward appearance and the inner condition of their hearts.

Jesus concludes the chapter with a lament over Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and rejects God’s messengers. These words reflect Jesus’ deep sorrow over the city’s rejection and impending judgment, while also containing a prophetic announcement of His eventual return.

Summary:

Matthew 23 is a chapter where Jesus sharply criticizes the hypocrisy and abuse of religious authority by the scribes and Pharisees. He condemns their outward piety, which does not align with inner purity and righteousness, and warns His disciples against making similar mistakes. Humility and willingness to serve are highlighted as true markers of greatness in the kingdom of God. The chapter ends with a mournful prophecy about the fate of Jerusalem, which continues to reject the divine invitation.

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 56—Blessing the Children

This chapter is based on Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17.

Read online here

 

Commentary

The chapter “Blessing the Children” highlights one of the most touching scenes in Jesus’ life, where He demonstrates His special love and affection for the smallest among us. This event is not only an expression of Jesus’ affection for children but also a powerful symbol of the appreciation and place they hold in the kingdom of God.

In the context of the Jewish society of that time, where children were often viewed as the property of their parents rather than as independent individuals with spiritual significance, Jesus’ actions were revolutionary. The disciples, who attempted to dismiss the mothers with their children, likely believed that Jesus’ mission was too important to be interrupted by such seemingly trivial concerns. However, Jesus made it clear that these “trivial” matters are of utmost importance in the kingdom of God. His words, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16), reflect a profound truth: Children embody the kind of innocence, openness, and trust that adults should also strive for in their faith.

The incident also underscores the far-reaching significance of Jesus’ blessing. The mothers who brought their children to Him did so in hope of divine grace and protection for their little ones. Jesus did not disappoint these expectations. Instead, He blessed the children not only physically but spiritually, providing the mothers with great comfort and hope. This blessing was not just a simple gesture but a profound affirmation that their children are valuable in God’s eyes and that their efforts to raise them in faith are supported and blessed by God Himself.

The commentary also highlights the responsibility of parents to raise their children in the Christian faith. This responsibility is portrayed not merely as a parental duty but as a sacred calling, where parents act as instruments of God. By leading their children to Christ, they help lay the foundation for a life of faith and grace. Parents are to open their children’s hearts to the truths of the Gospel and teach them in ways that are understandable to them. The image of parents as “gardeners,” nurturing the young plants of their children with love and care, is a powerful metaphor that describes the fragility and potential of the child’s soul.

Jesus’ interaction with the children also shows us how we should approach children today. It is a reminder that children should not only be seen as future members of the church but as current, valuable members of God’s community. Their spiritual education begins not only when they reach adulthood but from their earliest years. Therefore, it is the responsibility of parents, teachers, and the entire Christian community to shape these young hearts, encourage them, and guide them to Christ.

Furthermore, it is comforting to see that Jesus’ care and love for children extend beyond that time. The commentary makes it clear that even today, Jesus knows the concerns and struggles of mothers and supports them in their task of raising their children in faith. His love and understanding for the trials and challenges of parenthood are a comforting thought for all who seek support and encouragement in raising their children.

Overall, this chapter provides a profound reflection on the significance of blessing children in the Christian faith and the central role that children play in the kingdom of God. It is a call to all who bear responsibility for children to raise them with love and with an eye towards their spiritual development, and it serves as a reminder that Jesus still holds the same love and affection for the smallest among us today as He did then.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages Chapter 57—“One Thing Thou Lackest”

This chapter is based on Matthew 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23.

Read online here

 

Commentary

This chapter describes the deeply moving encounter between Jesus and a young man known in the Gospels as the rich young ruler. It is a story that speaks not only to the heart but also to the mind, as it addresses central issues of discipleship, obedience, and devotion to God. The encounter reveals the difficulty Jesus presents to the young man: the call to total self-denial and dedication to God in exchange for eternal life.

The rich young ruler symbolizes many people who earnestly seek spiritual fulfillment and the kingdom of God but are held back by the worldly things they hold dear. His desire to gain eternal life is genuine and profound, as evidenced by his urgent approach to Jesus, kneeling before Him, and asking his pressing question. However, when Jesus reveals the true cost of eternal life, the inner struggle of the young man becomes apparent.

Jesus asks him to sell his wealth and give the money to the poor to gain treasure in heaven. This request is not a general rule Jesus sets for all believers but a specific test for this young man. Jesus recognizes that his heart is attached to his possessions and shows him that true discipleship requires letting go of all worldly securities and attachments. It is not merely about relinquishing material wealth but about the willingness to give up anything that keeps the heart from serving God.

The tragedy of this story lies in the young man’s reaction. He is sad because he is not willing to pay the high price Jesus demands. His wealth is too precious to him, and thus he chooses not to follow Jesus. This decision reveals a profound truth: even the best intentions and the most sincere desire for God can be overwhelmed by love for the things of this world.

Jesus’ call to give up everything and follow Him is an invitation to find true freedom in total devotion to God. It is a call that still reaches out today to anyone who seeks eternal life. The story of the rich young ruler shows that the path to God involves the cross of self-denial, and that true fulfillment and eternal life can only be attained if one is willing to leave all earthly things behind.

This incident serves as a reminder that worldly wealth and earthly securities cannot compare with the treasure of heaven. It is a call to reflect on the things that may be hindering us from true discipleship. Whatever our “one thing that we lack” may be, it stands between us and complete communion with God. The rich young ruler had a choice, and that choice also lies before us: Will we be willing to give up everything for Christ, or will we, like him, leave sadly because the worldly things are too important to us?

Jesus’ behavior in this story is also a lesson for all who are engaged in pastoral care. He meets the young man with love and compassion, even though he conveys a harsh truth. His love is not sentimental but demands the truth and the best for the person, even if it means that the path is painful. This approach should also guide those who accompany others on their journey to God.

Ultimately, the story of the rich young ruler shows that following Jesus requires radical decisions. It is a call to total dedication, the renunciation of all idols, and the acceptance of the cross. However, the reward Jesus promises is incomparable: eternal life and the treasure in heaven that far surpasses any earthly joy and security.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/22-08-2024-matthew-chapter-23-believe-his-prophets/