Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 4.Parables  |
The Revelation of the Kingdom of God through Jesus’ Parables

Lesson 4 examines Jesus’ parables in the Gospel of Mark and their deeper significance for the Kingdom of God. These vivid stories, such as the Parable of the Sower, the Lamp, the Growing Seed, and the Mustard Seed, convey central spiritual truths. They illustrate how people respond to God’s word and how the Kingdom of God is based on divine growth. Through these parables, Jesus teaches the principles of faith and the dynamics of divine action. The lesson invites us to understand Jesus’ message and be open to the transformative potential of the gospel.

Memory Text: Mark 4:24.25 – “Then He said to them, ‘Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him’.”

Content:
4.1 The Parable of the Sower
The Importance of Receptivity for the Success of God’s Word

The Parable of the Sower in Mark 4:1-9 describes four types of soil on which the seed falls and the respective fate of the seeds. The seed that falls on the path is immediately eaten by birds. The seed on rocky ground sprouts quickly but withers due to lack of roots. The seed among thorns is choked and cannot thrive. Finally, the seed on good soil yields a rich harvest. This parable emphasizes that the effectiveness of God’s word greatly depends on the receptivity of the hearer’s heart. It highlights the challenges and risks of following Jesus, but also the rich rewards of a fruitful life of faith.

4.2 Jesus’ Interpretation
Jesus’ Explanation of the Parable of the Sower

After telling the Parable of the Sower to a large crowd, Jesus explained it later to a smaller group (Mark 4:13-20). Jesus identifies the seed as “the word of God” and the various soils as different types of listeners. The seed on the path symbolizes people from whom Satan takes away the word before it can take root. The rocky ground represents those who joyfully receive the word but quickly fall away when difficulties arise. The soil with thorns signifies those who hear the word but are choked by worldly worries and riches. Only the good soil symbolizes those who hear, accept, and bear fruit from the word.

4.3 The Reason for the Parables
The Purpose of Jesus’ Parables

Jesus taught in parables to convey deeper spiritual truths that only those open to his message could understand (Mark 4:10-12). At first glance, it might seem that Jesus wanted to keep outsiders in the dark. However, this interpretation does not align with his compassionate and clear actions elsewhere in the Gospel of Mark. In Mark 4, Jesus references Isaiah 6 to illustrate that people often fail to understand due to their own hardness of heart and prejudices. These parables challenge listeners to engage seriously with Jesus’ teachings and to be open to God’s will. Ultimately, understanding depends on the willingness to be transformed by Jesus and his word.

4.4 Lamp and Measuring Basket
Openness and Receptivity to the Truth

In the Parable of the Lamp (Mark 4:21-23), Jesus emphasizes that a lamp is meant to give light and not to be hidden. This symbolizes the truth and the gospel, which should be brought to light and made accessible to all. The absurd questions Jesus poses highlight that it would be pointless to hide a lamp, just as it would be pointless to hide the truth about the Kingdom of God. Jesus means that his message should not remain hidden but be openly proclaimed. He also encourages listeners to pay close attention, as those who accept the light of truth will receive even more, while those who reject it will lose even what they have (Mark 4:24-25).

4.5 Parables of Growing Seed
Growth and Greatness of the Kingdom of God

In the Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29), Jesus emphasizes the natural growth process of the Kingdom of God, which occurs independently of human intervention. The person sows the seed and harvests, but the actual growth is God’s work. This parable underscores that the Kingdom of God has a divine dynamic and does not grow endlessly but reaches a certain climax – the harvest, symbolizing the end of the world.

In the Parable of the Mustard Seed (Mark 4:30-32), the focus is on how something very small grows into something great. The tiny mustard seed that becomes a large plant symbolizes the Kingdom of God, which starts small but grows tremendously. This metaphor shows that despite its humble beginnings, the Kingdom of God will have a significant and worldwide impact. Jesus illustrates that the Kingdom of God, like the mustard seed, possesses an overwhelming and transformative power that exceeds all expectations.

4.6 Summary
Revelation and Growth of the Kingdom of God

Lesson 4 deals with Jesus’ parables in the Gospel of Mark, which convey profound spiritual truths. In the Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:1-20), different types of listeners are represented by various soils, with only the good soil bearing fruit. The Parable of the Lamp (Mark 4:21-25) emphasizes that the truth should come to light and openness to the gospel is rewarded. In the Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29), Jesus shows that the Kingdom of God is based on divine growth, independent of human intervention. Finally, the Parable of the Mustard Seed (Mark 4:30-32) illustrates how the Kingdom of God grows from small beginnings into something great. These parables highlight the principles of the Kingdom of God and the necessity of being open and receptive to its message.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-book-of-mark-lesson-4-parables-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 3.Controversies  |
The Controversies Surrounding Jesus’ Ministry

Lesson 3 examines the controversies that surrounded Jesus during his ministry. This lesson highlights how Jesus repeatedly clashed with the religious leaders of his time because he challenged their traditional views. Examples include healing on the Sabbath, the calling of Levi, and discussions about fasting. Each of these stories reveals Jesus’ deeper message of mercy and justice. These controversies make it clear that Jesus came to fulfill the true intent of God’s laws and show people a new way.

Memory Text: Mark 2:27.28 – “And He said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath’.”

Content:
3.1 Healing a Paralytic
Faith, Healing, and the Power of Forgiveness

The paralytic sought healing from Jesus and was brought to him by four friends full of faith. This faith was evident in their determined actions to open the roof and lower their friend to Jesus. Jesus recognized their faith and first forgave the paralytic’s sins, which outraged the religious leaders as they considered it blasphemy. To affirm his divine authority, Jesus then physically healed the paralytic, enabling him to stand and walk. This demonstrated that Jesus had the power to forgive sins and provide physical healing, challenging the narrow religious views of the leaders. The narrative illustrates how genuine faith and God’s work manifest in visible actions.

3.2 Calling Levi and the Question of Fasting
The Calling of Levi and Jesus’ Teaching on Fasting

Levi, the son of Alphaeus, was a despised tax collector known for collaborating with the Romans and collecting excessive taxes. This made him a sinner in the eyes of the Jewish population. The scribes and Pharisees were shocked and outraged when Jesus called Levi to follow him and ate with him. Jesus defended his actions by explaining that he came to heal the sick and call sinners to repentance, not to serve the righteous. In response to the question about fasting, Jesus compared his presence to a wedding celebration where joy and feasting are appropriate. This highlighted the difference between his new teaching and the old traditions of the religious leaders.

3.3 The Lord of the Sabbath
Jesus and the True Meaning of the Sabbath

The Pharisees accused the disciples of breaking the Sabbath by picking grains. Jesus responded by referencing the story of David eating the consecrated bread to satisfy his men’s hunger. He argued that human well-being takes precedence over religious regulations. Jesus emphasized that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. By declaring himself the Lord of the Sabbath, he asserted his authority over Sabbath laws. This was further demonstrated when he healed a man on the Sabbath, prioritizing human welfare over traditional rules.

3.4 Sandwich Story, Part 1
Jesus’ Relatives and the Accusation of the Scribes

In Mark 3:20-25, Mark intertwines two stories into a “sandwich narrative.” The outer frame involves Jesus’ relatives who think he has lost his mind and intend to take him back. The inserted central story describes the scribes accusing Jesus of being in league with the devil. Jesus refuted this accusation by explaining that a divided kingdom cannot stand and it makes no sense for Satan to oppose himself. He illustrated his power over Satan by describing himself as the one who binds the strong man and plunders his house to free his captives. This structure shows how both Jesus’ family and the religious leaders misunderstood his true identity and mission.

3.5 Sandwich Story, Part 2
Jesus’ Family and the Misunderstandings of His Mission

Jesus’ family thought he was “out of his mind” because he was so busy that he didn’t even have time to eat. This accusation of mental instability arose from their concern that Jesus posed a threat to his own safety. This parallels the central story where the scribes accuse Jesus of being in league with the devil. Both groups—his family and the scribes—misunderstood his mission. Jesus used the opportunity to explain that his true family consists of those who do God’s will, redefining the concept of family.

3.6 Summary
Jesus’ Conflicts with the Religious Leaders

Lesson 3 explores the various controversies Jesus faced during his ministry. These conflicts show how Jesus often stood in opposition to the religious leaders and traditional norms of his time. The lesson covers events such as healing on the Sabbath, the calling of Levi, discussions about fasting, and accusations that Jesus acted through the power of the devil. In each of these situations, Jesus demonstrated his authority and offered a new perspective on Jewish laws and traditions. He emphasized that mercy, justice, and God’s will take precedence over rigid rituals and traditions. These controversies highlight the radical nature of Jesus’ message and his challenge to the established religious structures.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-book-of-mark-lesson-3-controversies-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 2.A Day in the Ministry of Jesus  |
Calling, Teaching, Healing, and Prayer

Lesson 2 examines a day in the life of Jesus as described in the first chapter of the Gospel of Mark. We see Jesus calling his first disciples, teaching in the synagogue, casting out demons, and healing the sick. These events showcase his divine authority, compassion, and willingness to help those on the margins of society. Jesus’ prayer life is also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of spiritual strength. Overall, this lesson provides a comprehensive insight into Jesus’ multifaceted ministry and its transformative impact on the people around him.

Memory Text: Mark 1,17 – “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men’.”

Content:
2.1 “Follow Me”
The Call to Discipleship: The First Disciples and Their Immediate Response

In Mark 1:16–20, Jesus calls his first disciples, the fishermen Simon and Andrew, as well as the brothers James and John, to follow him. These men respond immediately, leaving everything behind to follow Jesus. The Gospel of John offers more context, suggesting that these men had already been prepared for Jesus by John the Baptist, explaining their quick response. However, Mark emphasizes Jesus’ authority in his call: a simple “Follow me” is enough to compel the fishermen to abandon their previous lives and embark on a new path. This immediate reaction highlights the transformative power of Jesus and the disciples’ readiness to follow this power.

2.2 An Unforgettable Worship Service
Jesus’ Power Revealed: An Unforgettable Sabbath in Capernaum

In Mark 1:21–28, the people in the synagogue of Capernaum witness an unforgettable event when Jesus casts out a demon. The demon recognizes Jesus as the “Holy One of God,” affirming Jesus’ divine authority. This scene illustrates the contrast between the holy and the unholy and the reality of spiritual warfare. Jesus’ command for the demon to be silent, known as the “messianic secret,” emphasizes the political and spiritual significance of his identity. Ultimately, this account demonstrates Jesus’ undeniable power and authority, challenging people to respond to his message.

2.3 More Sabbath Ministry
Healing and Service: Jesus’ Help for Peter’s Family

In Mark 1:29–34, Jesus helps Peter’s family by healing his sick mother-in-law. She immediately recovers and begins to serve those present, demonstrating that healing and service are inseparably connected. Later, after sunset, many people flock to Peter’s house to be healed by Jesus. This scene highlights Jesus’ boundless compassion and willingness to help people, regardless of the time of day. The account teaches us that true healing through Jesus encompasses not only physical recovery but also the readiness and ability to serve others.

2.4 The Secret of Jesus’ Ministry
Prayer as a Source of Strength: Jesus’ Withdrawal and Focus in Ministry

In Mark 1:35–39, we see Jesus rising early in the morning to find a secluded place to pray. This emphasizes the importance of prayer in his life and ministry. Jesus’ continuous prayer shows that his strength and guidance came from his close relationship with God. His disciples found him and wanted him to continue healing people, but Jesus emphasized that his mission was to preach the gospel in other towns as well. This passage teaches us the necessity of regularly withdrawing to gain strength through prayer and reminds us to keep in mind the broader mission God has given us.

2.5 Can You Keep a Secret?
Compassion and Healing: Jesus’ Approach to the Outcast

In Mark 1:40–45, Jesus encounters a leper who asks for healing. Jesus shows compassion by touching the man, resulting in his healing. This action underscores Jesus’ willingness to reach out to the outcast and break their isolation. He instructs the healed man to tell no one and instead go to the priest to fulfill the Mosaic requirements. This episode shows that Jesus respects the Mosaic law while simultaneously demonstrating his healing and cleansing power over traditional purity laws. The healed man spreads the news anyway, complicating Jesus’ ministry but further revealing his authority and mercy.

2.6 Summary
A Day in the Life of Jesus: Calling, Teaching, Healing, and Prayer

Mark 1 describes a day in Jesus’ ministry, highlighting his calling of disciples, teaching in the synagogue, casting out demons, and healing the sick. Jesus’ call to the fishermen to follow him demonstrates his authority and their immediate willingness. In Capernaum, he reveals his power by casting out a demon, leaving the people deeply impressed. His early morning prayer underscores the importance of spiritual strength. Finally, Jesus shows compassion by healing a leper and breaking social barriers while respecting the Mosaic laws. These events illustrate Jesus’ comprehensive ministry, combining teaching, healing, and spiritual authority.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-book-of-mark-lesson-2-a-day-in-the-ministry-of-jesus-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series THE BOOK OF MARK with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 1.The Beginning of the Gospel |
Jesus’ Early Ministry in Mark

Lesson 1 delves into the early stages of Jesus’ ministry as narrated in the Gospel of Mark. It begins with John the Baptist’s role in preparing the way for Jesus, emphasizing the significance of repentance and baptism. The lesson highlights Jesus’ baptism, where He is affirmed by God and anointed by the Holy Spirit, marking the start of His public ministry. It also covers Jesus’ proclamation of the gospel, calling people to repent and believe as the kingdom of God is near. Additionally, the lesson explores the selection of the first disciples and Jesus’ early miracles, establishing His divine authority and mission.

Memory Text: Mark 1,14.15 – “Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel.’ ”

Content:
1.1 The Failed Missionary
Introduction and Early Setback of John Mark

John Mark is introduced in Acts 12:12 as the son of Mary, a wealthy supporter of the early church who hosted prayer meetings at her home. Although he does not play a significant role in the events of Acts 12, this introduction sets the stage for his later involvement with Barnabas and Saul. In Acts 13:1–5, 13, we learn that John Mark accompanied Saul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, serving as a helper. However, in verse 13, it is noted that he returned to Jerusalem, leaving the mission. Ellen G. White suggests that fear and discouragement led to his departure, as he was unaccustomed to the hardships of missionary work. This early setback did not define his entire ministry, as John Mark would later be recognized for his contributions to the Gospel.

1.2 A Second Chance
The Redemption of John Mark

Paul rejected John Mark because he had previously deserted them and not continued in the ministry, as noted in Acts 15:38. Paul viewed the missionary work as demanding and needing reliable companions, making him reluctant to trust Mark again. However, Barnabas, seeing potential in Mark and unwilling to give up on him, chose to give him a second chance, leading to a sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. This dispute resulted in them parting ways, with Paul taking Silas and Barnabas taking Mark. Later New Testament references, including Colossians 4:10 and 2 Timothy 4:11, indicate Mark’s significant recovery and valuable contribution to the ministry, showing that Barnabas’s faith in him was well-placed.

1.3 The Messenger
John the Baptist: Preparing the Way

Mark 1:1-8 introduces three main characters: Jesus Christ, God the Father, and John the Baptist. John is depicted as a preacher preparing the way for Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies from Exodus, Isaiah, and Malachi, which all speak of a journey. John calls for repentance and emphasizes the coming of someone much greater than himself, referring to Jesus. His humility is highlighted when he states he is not worthy to untie Jesus’ sandals. These verses set the stage for the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and the journey that will lead to His sacrificial death.

1.4 Jesus’ Baptism
The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus

Jesus’ baptism in Mark 1:9-13 includes significant figures and events. John baptizes Jesus in the Jordan River, and as Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove. God’s voice proclaims, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” This moment highlights the presence of the Trinity, affirming the start of Jesus’ ministry. Following His baptism, the Spirit drives Jesus into the wilderness, where He faces temptation from Satan. This scene underscores both Jesus’ divinity and humanity, illustrating His unique role as both God and man.

1.5 The Gospel According to Jesus
The Gospel According to Jesus: Fulfillment, Kingdom, and Call to Repentance

Mark 1:14-15 presents Jesus’ gospel message in three key parts: the fulfillment of time prophecy, the nearness of God’s kingdom, and the call to repentance and belief. The time prophecy Jesus refers to is the 70-week prophecy from Daniel 9:24-27, which predicts significant events in Jesus’ life. This prophecy began in 457 B.C. and pointed to A.D. 27 when Jesus was baptized and started His ministry. His crucifixion occurred three and a half years later, with the prophecy’s completion marked by Stephen’s stoning in A.D. 34. This moment signaled the broader spread of the gospel to the Gentiles.

1.6 Summary
Jesus’ Early Ministry

Lesson 1 focuses on the early ministry of Jesus as described in the Gospel of Mark. It highlights significant events such as Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist, which marks the beginning of His public ministry and the affirmation of His divine sonship. The lesson also covers Jesus’ initial proclamation of the gospel message, emphasizing the fulfillment of time prophecy, the nearness of God’s kingdom, and the call to repentance and belief. Additionally, the lesson addresses the selection of the first disciples and Jesus’ early miracles, which establish His authority and mission. Overall, it sets the stage for understanding Jesus’ role and the transformative power of His message.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-book-of-mark-lesson-1-the-beginning-of-the-gospel-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 13.The Triumph of God’s Love  |
Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny   |

In this final lesson, we explore how God’s love and justice triumph in the last days of Earth. We consider the hope that believers have in difficult times and the promise of Jesus’ soon return, which brings comfort and confidence. The millennium on Earth and the judgment during this period reveal God’s just actions and His efforts to save humanity. Finally, we examine the two eternities – the final destiny of the righteous and the wicked – and see how God’s love and justice ultimately prevail.

Memory Text: Revelation 21,3.4 – “And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.’ ”

Content:
13.1 Hope in the Time of Trouble
God’s Promises for the End Times

The events described in the Bible before Jesus’ return are marked by an intense time of tribulation and the final seven plagues, as described in Revelation 16. However, God’s people will be protected amid these challenges, similar to the plagues in Egypt. Those whose names are written in the Book of Life will be saved, which points to a deep and faithful relationship with Jesus (Daniel 12:1). In times of tribulation, a close personal relationship with Jesus is the only sufficient preparation to remain pure and faithful (1 John 3:1-3). Comforting promises in the Psalms and Revelation 3:10-12 assure us that Jesus is always with us and that our faith will remain strong, even when the world around us falls apart. In these difficult times, our longing for eternity and the desire to live forever with Jesus grow.

13.2 Hope in Jesus’ Soon Return
Comfort and Confidence in Troubling Times

Jesus’ assurance in John 14:1-3 that He will not leave us and will return to take us home gives us comfort and hope in the face of upcoming challenges and tribulation. This promise encourages us, reminding us of our true home and pointing to the “blessed hope” that has inspired believers of all generations (Titus 2:11-14). While the wicked are plagued by fear and guilt as described in Revelation 6:15-17 and Isaiah 25:8-9, the righteous experience peace and joy through the acceptance of God’s grace. The reaction of the redeemed in Revelation 15:3-4 and 19:7 shows their gratitude and reverence for Christ’s generous salvation. The sequence of events in Revelation 12:17, 17:13-14, and 19:11-16 reveals the final battle on Earth and Christ’s ultimate victory, instilling hope and confidence in our hearts.

13.3 The Millennium on Earth
Satan’s Imprisonment and the Revelation of Divine Justice

Revelation 19 ends with the dramatic return of Jesus and the destruction of the wicked, but the story continues in Revelation 20, which introduces us to the millennium, a period of 1,000 years. During this time, Satan is symbolically bound and cast into an “abyss,” meaning that he cannot deceive anyone due to the desolate and depopulated Earth. This corresponds to the description in 2 Peter 2:4, where Satan and his angels are kept in “chains of darkness.” Jeremiah 4:23-26 and 25:33 depict the Earth as devastated and lifeless, with Satan and his angels having to witness the destruction their rebellion has caused. This millennium vividly demonstrates the consequences of sin and God’s justice, love, and efforts to save humanity.

13.4 Judgment in the Millennium
Divine Justice and the Clarification of All Questions

During the millennium, the righteous will reign with Christ in heaven and have the opportunity to understand God’s justice (Revelation 20:4-6). They will be able to ask questions and comprehend why some people are not in heaven, recognizing God’s fair and loving judgments. This will strengthen the redeemed’s trust in God’s justice and His efforts to save every person. At the end of the millennium, the wicked dead will be resurrected, Satan will deceive the nations one last time, and there will be a final confrontation (Revelation 20:7-9). The timing of the final judgment reflects God’s patience and His comprehensive willingness to give everyone a chance for salvation before the final verdict – the second death – is pronounced.

13.5 Two Eternities
The Final Destiny of the Righteous and the Wicked

The wicked are resurrected according to 2 Corinthians 5:10, Romans 14:10-11, and Revelation 20:11-15 so that all can recognize that God’s ways were just and fair. Everyone will bow before God and acknowledge His justice, even Satan and his followers. Ellen White describes how the wicked will be aware of every sin and rejection of divine grace at the final reckoning. This realization leads to their final judgment and eternal death. Revelation 20:9, Psalm 37:20, and Malachi 4:1-2 show that sin and sinners will be consumed by fire, not subjected to eternal torment. God is not an eternal tormentor; the destruction is final. Therefore, our only hope lies in trusting in the righteousness of Jesus to avoid death and receive eternal life.

13.6 Summary
The Triumph of God’s Love: Hope, Justice, and the Final Destiny

This lesson addresses the triumph of divine love in the end times. In difficult times, God’s protection gives believers hope and highlights the necessity of a deep relationship with Jesus during the tribulation (13.1). The promise of Jesus’ soon return brings comfort and confidence, inspired by the “blessed hope” (13.2). During the millennium, Satan will be bound, and the Earth will be devastated, revealing divine justice (13.3). The righteous will reign in heaven and better understand God’s justice while the wicked are judged at the end of the millennium (13.4). Finally, the ultimate destruction of sin and the salvation of the righteous showcase God’s justice and mercy (13.5).

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-great-controversy-lesson-13-the-triumph-of-gods-love-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/