And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.”

John 1:19-23

And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” John 1:21

I continue my study of John, and today, I outline John 1:19-28 and unpack the text using the Sword Bible Study Method: 

Main point: John points to Jesus as fulfillment of prophecy and infinite worth.  

1. John the Baptist and men baptize with water - vv19-23
2. Jesus will baptize with Holy Spirit - vv24-28   

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: At this point in the text, Jesus has yet to start His ministry so He is not known - v26; Jesus fulfills prophecy from Isaiah and John - v23, vv26-27; Jesus has worth more than John - v27; Jesus will baptize with something more and better than water - vv26-27 
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: The Jewish leaders are concerned about and question John re: who he is and what he is doing imploring people to repent as he baptizes people in Bethany (in the Jordan River) - vv19-28; upon questioning John shares that while he is not Elijah (v21), and He is not Jesus (note the use of lower case "p" as John is not The Prophet as a proper noun as this is assigned to Jesus - v21), he does fulfill prophecy from Isaiah 40:3 as coming before Jesus - v23; John baptizes with water - v26; John is less than Jesus - v27. 
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Although John the Baptist can be seen as a biblical hero he is not God nor is anyone else, including pastors, etc. - we should avoid idolizing church figures but worship God alone; we should follow John's example to see Jesus is of great worth and value - our ultimate treasure; we should follow the example of those who received baptism from John and pursue baptism as a public statement of our faith and receive baptism through the Holy Spirit. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and who is my ultimate treasure - You save!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings...my sin is great and it continues....daily.  Please forgive me and help me turn from and overcome such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

John 1:14-18

For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:17-18

I continue my study of John and this morning, I focus on on vv14-18. 

Observations of the vv14-18 based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: God (the Word) became flesh (doctrine of incarnation), He lived among humankind for a period, His glory (as the only Son of God) was seen by humankind, the Son of God was sent by God, and He is full of grace and truth - v14; John the Baptist bore witness of Jesus, and Jesus existed before John the Baptist - v15; Jesus gives us grace upon grace - which implies a continuous flow of grace, one that never ceases (see also Lamentations 3:23-23) - v16; Jesus gives us freedom from the law (grace and truth), a New Covenant based on His shed blood and death on the cross; we must still obey the law (the moral law not the ceremonial law), but our obedience comes through a relationship in Jesus and the Holy Spirit as obedience is not something we can attain on our own - v17; no one has even seen God (Moses came close), yet Jesus (who is currently seated at the right hand of God in Heaven) made Him known to us, that we can know Him more and have an intimate personal relationship with Him as our Lord and Savior - v18.    
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Though Jesus took on flesh and become human as the incarnate Son of God, humankind cannot claim that we are equal to Jesus.
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid focus on the law, on achieving God's favor through works and our own strength, and instead focus on knowing and loving Jesus more and more each day. Claim the promise of how Jesus' provides a never ending fountain of grace, one that provides mercies every day - ponder this and rejoice in what God has done to provide this for you. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, what an awesome God You are that saves and provides grace upon grace in an inexhaustible supply...thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of salvation nor such grace.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

John 1:11-13

But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,  who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13

I continue my study of John and this morning, I focus on on vv11-13. 

Observations of the vv1-13 based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: The OT prophesied about the coming Messiah as Jewish prophets gave hope to the Jews who over its history had experienced both captivity/exile and the destruction/plundering of their temple.  Jesus came first to the Jews during His ministry - He wanted to save the Jewish people (so did Paul - see also Romans 9:1-5) - v11.  To those who believed in Jesus, He gave new birth, regeneration and adoption into His family - vv12-13.     
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Although He is the Messiah promised in OT, Jesus was not seen by the Jewish leaders as fulfillment of prophecy but instead as blasphemous - v11. However, there were many Jews, including Jewish leaders such as Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea who at the very least showed interest in learning more about Jesus.  Those who do believe in Jesus became a new creation (with Jesus and the Holy Spirit living/working in their hearts) and received a new identity (child of God) - v13.  As children of God, believers experience new birth through God - this is the doctrine of regeneration - see also John 3:1-7.   
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Believers should fully comprehend and appreciate our new identity as members of God's family - set apart and saved.  We should tell others about this new identity and family, the inheritance that comes with this identity and family, and that anyone can join this family and also have this rich inheritance - see also Romans 8:16-17. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that gave me new birth, saved me and gave me faith, and through this I became a member of Your family and a fellow heir with You of the riches of Christ. Truly astounding!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings and riches.  My sin is great and it continues....daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.

John 1:6-10

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. John 1:9-10

I continue my study of John and this morning, I focus on on vv6-10. 

Observations of the vv6-10 based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: God sent John ahead of Jesus to prepare the way - v6; Jesus is the Light referred to in vv4-5 that gives light to and helps everyone overcome darkness (sin and death) - He is coming into the world (as incarnate Son of God) - v9.  Although Jesus existed in the beginning and is the author of creation, the world did not know Him (including His purpose - (to seek and save the lost, to serve and not be served - Luke 19:10, Mark 10:45) because He had yet to start His ministry on earth as the incarnate Son of God - v10.     
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: John was sent from God - v6; John was sent to prepare the way for Jesus and His purpose - v7; John is not Jesus, his purpose was to "bear witness" about Jesus, His ministry, and purpose - the gospel - v8.  John's role was prophesied in the OT (see also Isaiah 40:3, Malachi 3:1), so John's appearance fulfills prophecy.
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should not worship any man who is sent by God, worship only God. We are to see how Jesus gives light and life to everyone - power to overcome darkness - which is sin and death.  We should follow John's example to share the Good News about Jesus. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that loves and saves, giving me power to overcome sin and death.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You bless in such ways.  My sin is great and it continues....daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John 1:1-5

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5

I started a study of John and this morning, I outline John 1:1-18 but focus on vv1-5 what I see as the first division. 

Main point: Jesus is the Son of God and the basis of all existing life and of life reborn through faith.  

1. Both Jesus and the Word are eternal and the basis for creation and all life - vv1-5. 
2. John the Baptist was sent from God to prepare the world for Jesus - vv6-10.
3. Believers in Jesus will become children of God, reborn through the Holy Spirit - vv11-13.
4. Jesus is the incarnate Son of God, full of grace and truth - vv14-18.   

Observations of the vv1-5 based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: God's Word is eternal - v1; God's word IS God - v1. Jesus is eternal and with God - v2.  Jesus is the basis for all creation, all life, and life is in Him - vv3-4; Jesus is light in men - Holy Spirit - that shines in darkness and overcomes it - vv4-5.     
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: The light people have is a reflection of Jesus and this light gives people power to overcome darkness and sin - v5. 
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We are to claim the promise of Jesus' identity as God, Son of God and Holy Spirit.  We are also to claim the promise and truths that Jesus is eternal, the basis of all creation and life, and the Holy Spirit that lives in believers and gives power to overcome darkness, sin, and death. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, Jesus, You are an amazing God who loves and saves - You are the author of all creation and life, You save and give new life through You, and You saved me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil.

Luke 4:1-13

And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness  for forty days, being tempted by the devil. Luke 4:1-2a

As I have finished my study of Mark, pending a decision for what to study next, as a stop gap I am doing teacher training homework assigned from my church, which is to - without the use of a commentary - form a main idea and outline from a text.  The homework's text is Luke 4:1-13

Main point: Believers can defend against sin and temptation, just as Jesus did through faith, prayer, and the Holy Spirit.   

1. Jesus, is full of and led by the Holy Spirit to encounter Satan - v1
2. Jesus is tempted by Satan - vv2-3, 5-7, 9-11
3. Jesus defends Himself against Satan - vv4, 8, 12, 13

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus is full of the Holy Spirit and led by the Spirit - we are reminded of the role the Holy Spirit plays in not just Jesus' life but also believers lives to be fed (spiritually and physically), led, and protected from temptation - vv1, 4, 8, 12.  In the text we see Jesus led by the Holy Spirit to encounter Satan in the wilderness for forty days and be tempted - vv1-2 - using hunger (v2), earthly power (v7), refuge from physical harm (vv9-11), and ultimately "every temptation" (v13).  Jesus has a perfect understanding of scripture and leans on this understanding (see also Proverbs 3:5-6) to defend against temptation- we understand from John 1:1 that in the beginning Jesus was the Word (still is as God does not change) and the Word was with God.  We understand from the beginning of the text that Jesus is full of the Holy Spirit.  Given He is led by the Holy Spirit in the wilderness, we can infer that Jesus ordained an appointment with Satan to prepare Himself for ministry and ultimately for His crucifixion, as He knew the Father's will for His life.    
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Satan is very powerful - and Jesus is unable to protect Himself from the temptations (every temptation - v13) of Satan without power from the Holy Spirit - v1. Satan was unable to draw Jesus into sin - using "every temptation" - and departed Him - v13.     
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Just as it was for Jesus, temptation is real and all around us (see also 1 Peter 5:8) - we must avoid becoming a friend of the world to avoid sinful influences. We must not live on bread alone but also feed ourselves daily/spiritually with scripture.  We must not put God to the test. We should love God and worship God above self or others/idols. We must follow Jesus' example and put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:1-18), which includes scripture (which we must study and put it in our hearts), prayer, and the Holy Spirit.     

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves, saves, and equips us with the whole armor of God so that we can also have victory over sin and death.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You save and bless.  My sin is great and it continues...please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.

Mark 16:14-20

And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs. Mark 16:20

At the urging of pastors at my church and my wife Lisa, I continue my study of Mark - without assistance of a commentary.  Today, I explore Mark 16:14-20 which primarily focuses on the Great Commission:

Main point: While Jesus forgives temporary unbelief, eternal condemnation awaits those who reject the gospel message.

1. Disciples rebuked for temporary unbelief (v14)
2. Disciples charged to share the gospel to whole creation (v15)
3. Believers of gospel saved, while eternal condemnation awaits unbelievers (v16)
4. Salvation is a miracle (vv17-18)
5. Holy Spirit and miraculous signs will help disciples confirm gospel (vv19-20) 

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: After appearing to Mary M and Mary (mother of Jesus), Jesus then appears to the "eleven" disciples (everyone except Judas who had yet to be replaced see Acts 1) - v14a. Jesus then rebukes the disciples for their initial unbelief and hardness of heart regarding news of the resurrection as shared by Mary M, Mary, Cleopas, and his traveling companion - v14b.  Jesus charges His disciples to share the gospel globally and to the whole of creation - v16.  Jesus will provide miraculous signs to accompany salvation and those who believe - confirming that salvation is a work of God - vv17-18, 20 (see also Ephesians 2:8-9).  After the resurrection, Jesus ascends into Heaven to be seated at the right hand of God - v19 - but He will remain (Holy Spirit) with the disciples as they embark on the mission given to them to share the gospel globally - v20.
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: There will be periods when our faith will be tested and weakened, yet Jesus wants us to maintain faith so as to not fall away.  We can take heart because Jesus has overcome the world - John 16:33.  
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): While the disciples temporary unbelief and lack of trust in God is sinful, it is forgiven.  Scripture shares that there is unforgivable sin - see Matthew 12:31-32, Mark 3:28-30. God wants us to believe and to share the gospel globally - all true belief and salvation is accompanied by miraculous signs as believers bear spiritual fruit for abiding in God as directed in John 15:1-10.  We must obey the charge to share the gospel - locally and globally.      

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, what an awesome God You are that You save and work in me to bear fruit - without You I am nothing, certainly not saved.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of my salvation nor how You work in my heart and life.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it....And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.

Mark 16:9-13

But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it....And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them. Mark 16:11, 13

I continue my study of Mark, focusing on Mark 16:9-13 as we read about the disciples unbelief in Jesus' resurrection.

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: After His resurrection, Jesus appears first to Mary Magdalene, who had been healed by Jesus as He had cast out from her seven demons - v9.  While the motive to appear to Mary first vs others may be difficult to discern from this text, we do know that Jesus recognizes the great generosity of Mary and other women "healed of evil spirits and infirmities" as they provided for Jesus and His ministry "out of their [great] means" (see Luke 8:2 and this Bible encyclopedia entry for Mary Magdalene).  Jesus then appears "in another form" to two of the disciples on the road to Emmaus- v12.  We know from Luke 24:18 that one of these is Cleopas.
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Mary M goes to tell the disciples of Jesus' resurrection as they had been in mourning over His death - v10 - but they would not belief Mary M - v11. Cleopas and his traveling companion also share with the disciples that they saw the resurrected Jesus, but, again, even though the disciples had then been told this news now twice, they still did not believe the it- v13.  The disciples' unbelief reveals an incomplete understanding of and lack of faith in what Jesus had shared with them that He will rise after death (see John 2:19-21).    
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Belief in the resurrection is core to the gospel - without it we are not saved.  We must claim the promise that the victory over sin and death is already won and that our faith and salvation provides eternal life with Jesus in Heaven. We must trust in God that He is faithful - that all the promises of God find their yes in Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20).  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that is faithful - we can trust in You.  Thank You for my salvation and for the rest You provide based on Your faithfulness.  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus.  Help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.”

Mark 16:1-8

And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” Mark 16:6-7

I continue my study of Mark, focusing on Mark 16:1-8.  

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus inspires devotion, love and service as Mary Magdalene and Mary - Jesus' mother - go to the tomb where Jesus is buried to anoint Him with spices - vv1-2.  The angel in the tomb shares to Mary Magdalene and Mary that Jesus has risen - He is no longer in the tomb - vv6-7.  
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Mary Magdalene and Mary are alarmed at the scene they encounter both at the tomb entrance and in the tomb as the very large stone sealing the tomb had been rolled away - vv3-4 - and in the tomb Jesus was not there but an angel instead sharing that Jesus had risen - vv5-6.  While one may appreciate that this is alarming, we should also remember that Mary Magdalene and Mary had seen Jesus perform many miracles during His ministry time, and almost certainly had at least heard of Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead (John 11).  Mary Magdalene and Mary understood that Jesus had the power to raise Himself from the dead, but at this point fail to make the connection that Jesus had earlier that same week (Passion Week/Holy Week) shared that He would rise (see John 2:19-21). Although the angel tells Mary Magdalene and Mary to not be alarmed and that they will find Jesus "going before Peter and the disciples to Galilee" (v7), they are still trembling, astonished, afraid, and fled the tomb (v8).     
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): God does not want us to fear - do not fear.  This is a tough one because of course, although Jesus tells us that with Him we will overcome the world (John 16:33)- the temptation to fear is great. We should claim this promise that the victory over sin and death is already won.  We should obey God to abide in Him so that we can stand firm in the faith (John 15) and avoid fear...trust God (and His messengers such as the angel in the text).      

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves....You rose from the grave just as You promised You would and You are faithful to Your Word.  I am not deserving of what You did on the cross for me, for how You reveal Yourself to me in the Word, and for Your faithfulness.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.

Mark 15:42-47

Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Mark 15:43

I continue my study of Mark, focusing on Mark 15:42-47.  

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus has died and yet He continues to inspire a following - vv43, 47.  Through Him, in death there is life. 
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: While it may have been custom to ensure people receive a "proper burial" upon death, Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the Sanhedrin, indeed demonstrates extraordinary courage - fighting for Jesus more openly even after Jesus' death.  Clearly, Joseph cared for Jesus and John 19:38-40 shares how he was a secret disciple and John's account provides additional details of how Nicodemus - also a member of the Sanhedrin - joins Joseph to bury Jesus (see also John chapters 3 and 7 for earlier encounters of Nicodemus with Jesus).   
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should claim the promise that through Jesus' sacrifice (and ultimate resurrection) we have new life in Him.  We should follow the example of  Joseph of Arimathea and be courageous with our faith.   

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  You loved and saved me while I was still an enemy and hostile to You...thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and the greatest gift of all time.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And when the centurion, who stood facing [Jesus], saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!”

Mark 15:33-41

And when the centurion, who stood facing [Jesus], saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” Mark 15:39

I continue my study of Mark, focusing on Mark 15:33-41.  

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: In the midst of darkness that covered the whole land, Jesus cries out to the Father, asking why has He forsaken the Son -vv33-34. This feeling of being forsaken is understandable, yet we would expect this to be a temporary state of mind of course because we know that Jesus will rise and ascend to Heaven (see also Acts 1:9-11 and Luke 24:51). Jesus continues to be mocked right up until He dies - v36 - He does not save Himself although He has the power to do so, He faithfully submits to the Father's will - v37. 
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: There will always be those who mock Jesus as done in v36.  Based upon the darkness that befell the whole land and the tearing of the temple curtain vv33, 38, and what we know from the other gospels (Matthew 27:51-54) - earthquake, raising of dead, etc., the centurion accurately states that Jesus is the Son of God - v39. It is implied this centurion becomes a believer. Mary Magdelene, Mary mother of Jesus, and other women - those who loved and ministered to Jesus during His time in ministry observe the crucifixion - v40-41.  These women were certainly devastated by Jesus' death on the cross.  They followed and served (and were at His feet literally as He hung from the cross) Jesus through what they thought was the end, yet we know that this was not the end.
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?):  We should not question who Jesus is nor mock Him.  Today, many question and mock Jesus and even threaten harm (sometimes physical) - yet we must remain steadfast in our faith and continue to share the gospel.  We should follow Jesus without fear of reprisal - run the race until the end (our physical death) (Hebrews 12:1-2).  

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  You loved and saved me while I was still an enemy and hostile to You...thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and the greatest gift of all time.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

So also the chief priests with the scribes mocked him to one another, saying, "He saved others; he cannot save himself."

Mark 15:21-32

So also the chief priests with the scribes mocked him to one another, saying, "He saved others; he cannot save himself." Mark 15:31

I continue my study of Mark, focusing on Mark 15:21-32.  

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: v21 - it appears that Jesus was beaten so severely and scourged so harshly that Simon of Cyrene must help carry the cross where Jesus will be crucified; v21 - Jesus is offered wine with myrrh (one of its uses is as as an analgesic) but He refuses - suggesting that He did not want to "dull" the pain or otherwise not completely accept the will of the Father which was for Him to be the final sacrifice for all sin; vv23, 25 - the soldiers crucified Jesus and fulfilled prophecy from Psalm 22:18 (of David) which describes David's agony as Saul hunts him down - this Psalm more broadly mirrors many aspects of the gospel accounts of Jesus' crucifixion; v24, 26, 29-32 - Jesus is mocked, taunted, derided, and reviled by those crucifying Him, including the soldiers and the chief priests with the scribes, even by those who passed by; v32 - the two robbers crucified with Jesus also reviled Jesus.   
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: v31 - the chief priests with the scribes all but admit that Jesus has saving power and that He "saved others," yet their envy drives them to murder Him.    
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Envy is a destructive sin that we should avoid - do not covet is one of the Ten Commandments. We should see that Jesus IS King but that His Kingdom is eternal.  He is King of Kings. We should endure suffering as Jesus did and allow others to see how God works through our suffering to give us strength to endure. 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - thank You for saving me while still hostile and an enemy to You.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor of the mercies You pour out for me daily that never cease.  My sin is great and it continues...please forgive me Jesus - for impatience, anger, etc.  Help me turn from and overcome such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it.

Mark 15:21-47

And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. Mark 15:23

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 15:21-47, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. 

Outline of the text and observed divisions based on timings in the text:

1. Jesus suffers on the cross; up to sixth hour (vv21-32)
2. Jesus dies on the cross; up to ninth hour (vv33-41)
3. Jesus is buried; evening (vv42-47) 

Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus refuses wine mixed with myrrh (v23) and the use of myrrh in its historical context suggests that He did not want to "dull" any aspect of His death but instead He sought to "fully" experience the pain and suffering of His death;  Jesus does not save Himself and He is mocked for it (vv29-32, 36); Jesus cries out to God in agony as He feels forsaken by the Father (v34); Jesus dies (v37) and He is buried (vv46-47).    
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Simon of Cyrene is compelled by the Roman soldiers leading Jesus away (to be crucified) to assist in carrying the cross upon which Jesus will be crucified (v21); two robbers are crucified with Jesus - one on left and one on right (v27) and Mark's account describes how these two robbers reviled Him (v32); Jesus is mocked by the soldiers and bystanders - they taunted Him to save Himself (vv26-32, 35-36); the centurion who faced Jesus sees Jesus as Son of God (v39); women followers witness the crucifixion - Mary Magdelene, Mary (Jesus' mother), and Salome (wife of Zebedee and mother of James and John - Matthew 27:56); Joseph of Arimathea is described as "looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus," and Pilate grants this request (vv43, 45); Joseph of of Arimathea buys a linen shroud then wraps Jesus' body in the shroud, lays in a tomb of rock and seals the entrance of the tomb as Mary Magdelene and Mary observe (vv46-47).   
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should claim the promise that there is a New Covenant based on Jesus' blood that does away with OT ceremonial law where only the high priests can fellowship with God in the inner tent - v38 describes how the temple curtain is torn from top to bottom giving us direct access to God through Jesus; like Joseph of Arimathea, all believers should be "looking for the kingdom of God" and acting with courage based on this pursuit - while the text does not share that Joseph of Arimathea became a believer, the text does identify him as a member of the Sanhedrin and his actions likely would have been "frowned upon" to say the least (v43). 

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves as You willingly suffered an excruciating death on the cross - taking my place for my sins and the sins of all humanity for all of redemptive history.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such an act and gift - the greatest gift of all time.  My sins are great and they continue...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sins toward You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And they clothed him in a purple cloak, and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on him. And they began to salute him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” And they were striking his head with a reed and spitting on him and kneeling down in homage to him.

Mark 15:1-20

And they clothed him in a purple cloak, and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on him. And they began to salute him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” And they were striking his head with a reed and spitting on him and kneeling down in homage to him. Mark 15:17-19

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is, per the commentary, the second division of the text from Mark 15:1-20 - vv15-20.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv15-20: (1) God in the text: Further along the story arc of His arrest, Jesus is scourged (v15) and led away from the Jewish elders, scribes, chief priests and Sanhedrin and brought inside Pilate's headquarters where ~600 soldiers were gathered to be at the ready in case of civil unrest (v16); Jesus is beaten and mocked and then led away to be crucified (vv17-20); (2) People in the text: Pilate's struggle over what to do with Jesus ends as he satisfies the Jewish crowd to crucify Jesus (v15); Barrabas is released (v15); the soldiers lead Jesus away, mock and beat Him before leading Him away to be crucified (vv16-20); (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: We should not mock Jesus, instead see Him as King of Kings with an eternal kingdom not of this world - who takes upon Himself the sin of the world and God's wrath for this sin to save all of humanity; in the face of persecution, we should be steadfast in our faith.    

Excerpts from the commentary's third (of three) division: 

• The title of the third division is "Our Great King’s Suffering: The Pain and Shame."   
• "Mocking is clearly highlighted, but the focus is much more on the spiritual and psychological agony. Still, we would be negligent if we passed over too quickly the scourging and physical abuse He suffered."
• "Completely alone, humiliated, naked, and beaten nearly to death, our Savior endured yet again ridicule, shame, and pain at the hands of sinful men, at the hands of those He came to save."
• We are reminded how Jesus redeemed us from the curse set in motion during the Fall (Genesis 3).  He becomes the curse for us.  See also Deuteronomy 21:23.     

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an amazing God that willingly sent His Son to die on the cross, and Jesus willingly submitted to Your Will so that I could have life now to the full and for eternity in Heaven.  Thank You!  I am not deserving.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him.” So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.

Mark 15:1-20

And Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him.” So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified. Mark 15:14-15

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is, per the commentary, the second division of the text from Mark 15:1-20 - vv6-14.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv1-5: (1) God in the text:  Jesus is the object of others' actions, and here Pilate is struggling with what to do with Jesus as he believes Jesus is innocent of any crime (v14) but at the same time Pilate must placate (v15) Jewish leadership (some of which must use there role to stir up civil unrest or other complications for Pilate).  Jewish leaders urge crucifixion of Jesus - vv13-14; Jesus is then mocked and scourged (v15) (2) People in the text: Jewish leaders seek Pilate to follow custom and release a prisoner during Passover and they urge Barrabas to be released (they roundly reject Pilate's suggestion that it be Jesus - v9) and it is ironic that Pilate agrees because Barrabas participated (committed murder) in insurrection against Rome (v7); Pilate correctly sees the Jewish leadership as envious of Jesus due to Jesus' following among the people as they felt threatened and did not see Jesus as the promised Messiah from OT prophecy; many believe the Messiah would be an earthly king that would overthrow Rome and restore Jerusalem to self governance and former glory (such as under David's rule) (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: Avoid envy - see Exodus 20:17; see Jesus as the Promised Messiah and His kingdom as an eternal one not bound by earthly definitions. Do not murder.  Follow Jesus' example to understand and follow the Father's will.  Obey governing authorities (Romans 13).   

Excerpts from the commentary's second (of three) division: 

• The title of the first division is "Our Great King’s Substitution: The Injustice and Insult."   
• RE: Pilate's tough situation - we are referred to Matthew 27:19 where [Pilate's] wife had warned him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for today I’ve suffered terribly in a dream because of Him!”. 
• "Pilate has had enough. He publicly washes his hands, while the crowd accepts responsibility for executing the King (Matthew 27:24-25). Jesus was innocent but declared to be guilty."  It's important to note that this text describes how the crowd all but admits that they are committing murder by asking for Jesus' crucifixion.  

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an amazing God that willingly sent His Son to die on the cross, and Jesus willingly submitted to Your Will so that I could have life now to the full and for eternity in Heaven.  Thank You!  I am not deserving.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And Pilate asked [Jesus], “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.”

Mark 15:1-20

And Pilate asked [Jesus], “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.”  Mark 15:2

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is, per the commentary, the first division of the text from Mark 15:1-20 - vv1-5.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv1-5: (1) God in the text: Following His arrest, Jesus is bound and led away to be questioned by Pilate (v1); Pilate questions Jesus seeking first perhaps to satisfy His own curiosity whether Jesus is King of the Jews (v2); Jesus response in v2 can be considered "non responsive" but it can also be seen as one of deference because Jesus sees Pilate as a governing authority and per Romans 13 believers are commanded to submit to governing authorities that God places over us; believers know the answer is yes to Pilate's question and Jesus affirms Pilate; Jesus is accused of "many things" and provided no further defense to Pilate (vv3-5); (2) People in the text: the Sanhedrin consult with each other then as soon as it was morning turn Jesus over to Pilate (v1); Pilate's questioning is designed to both placate the Sanhedrin yet walk a fine line to not stir up Jesus' followers because we know later that Pilate sees Jesus as not guilty of any crimes (vv2-4); Pilate is amazed (v5) that Jesus offers no defense perhaps seeing Jesus as powerful and able to defend Himself more than adequately based on what he has heard about Jesus (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: Believers should have a right and true understanding of Jesus as Son of the Most Holy God and as God Himself, along with the Holy Spirit - the Triune God. We are to submit to governing authorities - of course unless it conflicts with what God commands us to do.  We should not blaspheme - something Jesus was accused of doing but did not. Jesus of course is our example as He follows and submits to His Father's will. 

Excerpts from the commentary's introduction and the first (of three) division: 

• The title of this chapter of the commentary covering this text is "Jesus the Great King: The Sacrifice for Sinners", and the main idea for the entirety of the text (vv1-20) is "Jesus suffered in our place as the sacrifice for sinners." 
• The title of the first division is "Our Great King’s Silence: The Accusations and Amazement."   
• "The Sanhedrin needs to move quickly to get the “Jesus case” before Pilate. They want Him executed before the Sabbath begins on Friday evening at sundown."
• "Only one accusation concerned Pilate, so he asked Jesus, “Are you the King of the Jews?” (v. 2). This title has obvious political overtones for Pilate and Rome. Pilate, like the high priest (14:61), is an accurate, though ignorant, confessor of the Christ."
• "Jesus responds in a cryptic fashion to his question: “You have said so.” This is neither a direct affirmation nor a denial. I think Jesus’ intention is something like, “Yes, I am a king, but not the kind of king you are thinking of.” As Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36)."
• "Here is the great King’s silence in the face of His accusers. Sinful men can only watch in amazement. No defense. Not a word. He will see to it that He goes to the cross."   

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You Jesus for taking my place on the cross and dying on my behalf - I know I received grace and salvation undeservedly. My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For [Pilate] perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up.

Mark 15:1-20

For [Pilate] perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up. Mark 15:10

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 15:1-20, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus is delivered over by the chief priests, elders, scribes and Jewish leadership council (Sanhedrin) to the Roman authorities for Pilate to ultimately decide Jesus' fate (v1). Pilate questions Jesus but other than a brief “non-responsive” response in v2, Jesus does not respond to Pilate (v5) - similar to how Jesus acted during questioning by the chief priests in chapter 14. Pilate correctly believed that Jesus had done no evil (v14) and saw envy of Jesus as the primary motive for Jesus' arrest (v10).  Jesus is not released per the custom during the Passover feast (v6) - instead Barrabas is released (v15). Pilate agrees to crucify Jesus and has him scourged (v15).  Jesus is led away and it is implied that a whole battalion (v16) is in place (hundreds of soldiers) to be prepared for wider unrest in Jerusalem given Jesus' popularity, following and the hatred stirred up against Jesus by Jewish temple leadership. Jesus is mocked as they gave Him a purple cloak (purple typically reserved for wealthy/powerful people and royalty) and crown of thorns.  He is beaten and spit upon then lead away for crucifixion (vv17-20).    
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: Jewish leadership is indeed envious of Jesus and this animates their desire to have Him suffer and die - Pilate's offer to release Jesus is roundly rejected and alarmingly the Jewish leaders want a murderer (v7) who played a role in insurrection against Roman rule (ironically something the Jews accepted but despised) - Pilate readily agrees to the release of Barrabas despite knowing this.  Roman governing power is indeed intimidating as Pilate seeks to placate Jewish leadership while avoiding wider civil unrest.   
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Envy is a powerful emotion and we see this at work with Jesus' arrest, etc.  Do not covet is one of the ten commandments.  We are to obey governing authorities (see Romans 13) except when in conflict with Jesus' commands. We are to follow Jesus' example of sharing the gospel even under threat of arrest and persecution - we are to trust that God will protect us either physically - at least spiritually.  In the face of trouble, we can take heart because Jesus has overcome the world (including death) - John 16:33.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - thank You Jesus!  Amazing grace indeed - thank You for the greatest gift of all time - salvation.  I am not deserving...my sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.

Mark 14:53-72

And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. Mark 14:72

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the second division of the text from Mark 14:53-72 - vv66-72.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv66-72: (1) God in the text: Jesus is secondary in this text; (2) people in the text: Peter denies Jesus three times just as Jesus said would happen in vv26-30; Peter invokes a curse upon himself in v71 in an apparent reference to breaking a command found in Leviticus 5:4-6; as Peter remembers Jesus' words prophesying this, Peter weeps (v72); the servant girl of the high priest and others correctly identify Peter as "with the Nazerene (v67), of them (v69), and of them...a Galilean (v70); (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: believers should not deny Jesus nor swear an oath or bear false witness as Peter did - we should stand firm in our faith and belief in Jesus and trust that He is with us and will strengthen us and protect us (either physically or spiritually in the case of death).  

Excerpts from the commentary's second (of two) division: 

• The title of the first division is "Peter Models the Unfaithful Witness as to Who He Is for."
• "Peter failed the Lord three times in the garden of Gethsemane (vv37-42). Now he fails Him three times in the courtyard of the high priest. Initially, he failed Him by sleeping when he should have been praying. Now he fails Him by denying Him when he should have confessed Him. The rock named Peter crumbles and is pulverized under the pressure."
• "At the very moment he was voicing his third denial, Jesus “turned and looked at Peter” (Luke 22:61)."
• Peter's repentance is not specifically mentioned in text but this commentary and John Piper imply a repentance and restoration via Peter's tears (see also Luke 22:62), and Jesus' interactions with Peter after Jesus' resurrection (John 21:15-19); see John Piper's post on this at DesiringGod.com.  
• "Peter would repent, turn to Christ for forgiveness, and receive a full pardon. By contrast Judas would only feel regret, run to the religious leaders to try to make amends, and go out and hang himself (Matthew 27:5). If only he had turned again to the Lord Jesus like Peter. Though his sin was great, he would have discovered that God’s grace was even greater."

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and who saves!  I am not deserving of how You love and save - my sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.

Mark 14:53-72

I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven. Mark 14:62

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the first division of the text from Mark 14:53-72 - vv53-65.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv53-65: (1) God in the text: Jesus is led to the high priest after His arrest (v53); Jesus is subjected to trial before the temple chief priests, elders, and scribes where they sought evidence to convict Jesus of blasphemy (vv53, 55); despite this questioning and false witness (v56-59), etc. there was no evidence that Jesus committed blasphemy (or any other sin) (v55); Jesus was silent in the face of all questioning except the questioning from the chief priest who sought to confirm Jesus identity as Christ the Son of the Blessed (v61) - to this Jesus said yes and pointed to His second coming (v62); Jesus was mocked, covered and spat upon (v65); (2) people in the text: Peter followed Jesus "at a distance - warming himself" focusing on his comfort vs the persecution of Jesus (v54); Peter denies Jesus just as prophesied during the Last Supper (vv26-31); the chief priests, elders, and scribes falsely accused Jesus of blasphemy against God yet ironically it was them who were blasphemous as Jesus confirms His identity to them and yet they still seek to condemn based on false charges they made up; (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: we should love God first (most important commandment) and not blaspheme Him; we should claim the promise that Jesus is the Son of God and He is worthy of all worship; and also rest in the promise that He will return; we should stand firm in our faith during trials and trust in Him; we should follow Jesus example to seek God's will for our lives and follow His will.  

Excerpts from the commentary's introduction and the first (of two) division: 

• The title of this chapter of the commentary covering this text is "The Beginning of the End for the Great King," and the main idea for the entirety of the text (vv53-72) is "[e]ven amid the falling away of all His followers, Jesus remained faithful to His calling."
• The title of the first division is "Jesus Makes the Faithful Witness as to Who He Is."  
• "[Jesus'] final hours were unjust and illegal. Jesus endured six hearings in a matter of hours—three ecclesiastical trials before the Jewish In the case of our Savior, not only was life unfair; His final hours were unjust and illegal. Jesus endured six hearings in a matter of hours—three ecclesiastical trials before the Jewish religious authorities and three civil trials before the Roman political authorities (Matthew 26–27; Mark 14–15; Luke 22–23; John 18–19). It is difficult to count up all the violations of Jewish law."
• Fulfilling scripture just as written (Isaiah 53:7) Jesus remains silent as He is questioned - the only time Jesus speaks is to reveal the "messianic secret" that Jesus sought to keep under wraps during His time in ministry. He is the Son of God.   

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God You are an awesome God who loves and who saves!  I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.

Mark 14:53-72

I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven. Mark 14:62

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, I focus on an unassisted review of Mark 14:53-72, which is the text for the next chapter of the commentary. Observations of the text based on the Sword Bible Study Method: 

• What do we learn from the passage about God?: Following His arrest, Jesus is led to the high priest - v53.  Jesus then faces his accusers as the chief priests, etc sought evidence and testimony against Jesus - although this was challenging - v55.  The only defense Jesus puts up is to respond in v62 sharing prophecy how He will rise after death to sit at the right hand of God and then ultimately coming again on the clouds. 
• What do we learn from the passage about people?: We see some of Jesus accusers seek to bear false witness of Jesus and to blaspheme Him - vv56-58; Jesus's response to questioning v62 is seen by His accusers as blasphemy and sufficient evidence to convict Jesus to death.  Some of Jesus' accusers spat on Jesus, mocked Him, and struck Him v65.  Peter is called out as being one of Jesus' followers - three times - but Peter denies it each time - fulfilling prophecy by Jesus v30.  Peter breaks down and weeps v72. 
• Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid,Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid denying and betraying Jesus (all sin is betrayal), falling away and scattering in the face of persecution, temptation, and fear by putting on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6) and standing firm in our faith.  We should claim Jesus' promise that He will return v62 "coming on the clouds of heaven."  See also Daniel 7:13; Matthew 26:64; Revelation 1:7.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You for willingly taking on my sin, and the death I deserved - so that I could be saved.  I am not deserving!  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.

Mark 14:26-52

Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled. Mark 14:49

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the third division of the text from Mark 14:26-52 - vv43-52.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv43-52: (1) God in the text: Jesus is betrayed by Judas and arrested by the temple guard; Jesus of course has an opportunity but does not stop his arrest, as we know from the other gospel accounts (John 18:1-11, Luke 22:47-53, and Matthew 26:47-56) that Jesus tells Peter (who struck one of the high priests with his sword) to “[p]ut your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”; He sought to fulfill scriptures - v50; (2) people in the text: Judas arrives with the temple guard, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders (v43); Judas is referred to as both one of the twelve and as the betrayer (vv43-44), perhaps alluding to how God seeks to give everyone many second, third, etc. chances to repents and be saved; those arresting Jesus "laid hands" on Him (v46) - ironically, scripture uses the same language we often use when we pray for someone we are sending out; consistent with his impulsive nature (seeking with good intent to protect Jesus), Peter strikes one the servants of the high priests but is told by Jesus to "back down"; Jesus knew this was the appointed time even as He rhetorically questions the timing - v49; the disciples flee in fear v50 (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: we should see Jesus fulfilled scripture and we can rely on the veracity of the Word and how all of God's promises find there yes in Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20). We are called to follow Jesus' example to understand God's will for our lives and to follow His will.  

Excerpts from the commentary's third (of three) division: 

• The title of the second division (vv43-52) per the commentary is "The King Would Be Arrested and Forsaken Alone." 
• We are referred to OT prophecy from Isaiah 53:3-12 for how Jesus fulfilled the law.  
• RE: the young man in vv51-52: "[c]hurch tradition says the young man was Mark, the author of our second Gospel. So again, as it was in the garden of Eden, our nakedness is exposed as we desert the God who loves us and has graced us so abundantly with His kindness and good gifts." 
• "[Jesus] is arrested, and He is forsaken. He is all alone to face the wrath of men and the wrath of God. He will receive receive all that we deserve, that we might receive all that He deserves. The “Great Exchange” has begun."

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an amazing God that willingly sent Your Son to die on the cross so that I could have freedom from sin in this life and for eternity.  Thank You!  I am not deserving of what Jesus did on the cross for me.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Mark 14:26-52

The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Mark 14:38b

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the second division of the text from Mark 14:26-52 - vv32-42.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv32-42: (1) God in the text: Jesus prays (vv32, 35, 36, 39) and he encourages Peter to pray (v38); He is greatly distressed, troubled and sorrowful (vv33, 34) "even to death" and He fell on the ground as a result of his emotions that brought Him to a point of obvious significant turmoil; He admonishes the disciples for falling asleep and not watching as He instructed them - alluding to how we are to be alert and not fall into temptation (v38); (2) people in the text: disciples fail to heed Jesus' instructions to watch and pray; (vv37, 40, 41); (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: We should obey Jesus' words to watch and pray v38 as "[t]he spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Excerpts from the commentary's second (of three) division: 

• The title of the second division (vv32-42) per the commentary is "The King Would Agonize over His Passion Alone." 
• "This is the third and final time Mark records our Lord praying alone (cf. 1:35; 6:46). Each occasion was a time of significant importance, but none more than this one."  
• "In spite of the exceptional trauma of the moment and the certain future that lay ahead, He trusted in God as His loving Father and in His will. What’s more, the “cup” that He prayed might be removed was not the physical pain He would endure endure on the cross. Indeed many Christian martyrs have gone to their death with thanksgiving and joy with no evidence whatsoever that they wished to avoid the hour of their martyrdom. No, the cup that so distressed and troubled Him was the spiritual suffering He would endure as He would bear the sins of the world and drink to the last drop the fierce wrath of God as our substitute."  
• "Gethsemane was “hell” for Jesus, but [we should be] so thankful He went through it. You see, if there is no Gethsemane, there is no Calvary. It there is no Calvary, there can be no empty tomb. And if there is no empty tomb, there is only hell for us."

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that suffered in ways that are unimaginable to me, including dying on the cross...for me.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such a gift - the greatest gift of all time.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

[B]ut [Peter] said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same.

Mark 14:26-52

[B]ut [Peter] said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same. Mark 14:31

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the first division of the text from Mark 14:26-52 - vv26-31.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv26-31: (1) God in the text: God joins the disciples in worship - singing a Him (v26); God knows the disciples will fall prey to fear and upon Jesus' arrest will deny their association with Him for their own protection; Jesus shares a prophecy of not just His death, but also His resurrection - see also Luke 24:1-9 where the disciples see the fulfillment of this prophecy; (2) people in the text: the disciples worship with Jesus (v26); Peter and the disciples "emphatically" deny (v31) that they will betray Jesus - this is arrogance because it effectively means that they are without sin because all sin is a betrayal to Jesus;   (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: we should see how Jesus is faithful and all of His promises (including prophecies) will come true and we can take comfort in how He promises us eternal life in Heaven with Him.  We should avoid arrogance and not claim to be without sin (1 John 1:8).  

Excerpts from the commentary's introduction and the first (of three) division: 

• The title of this chapter of the commentary covering this text is "The King Who Suffers Alone," and the main idea for the entirety of the text (vv26-52) is "Jesus is the righteous King who endured betrayal and shame for the sake of sinners."
• "[Jesus] also will suffer at the betrayal of His friends who fail Him in His hour of need (14:37,40-41), sell Him out (vv44-45), abandon Him (v50), and deny Him (vv66-72)." 
• "The suffering of this great King is multifaceted: personal, physical, mental, and most of all, spiritual. Jesus saw His loving Father’s hand in it all. He trusted Him in His most trying hour, an hour our finite human minds can never fully comprehend." 
• The title of the first division (vv26-31) per the commentary is "The King Would Be Abandoned and Left Alone."
• See Zechariah 13:7 for how Jesus refers to the OT for how scriptures will be fulfilled in how the disciples will scatter.  
• In contrast to the disciples arrogance and claims to not betray Him, Jesus shares how He will never leave or forsake us and we are encouraged to claim this promise from Hebrews 13:5. 

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me, and who will never leave or forsake me - You will be with me until the end of the age.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving...my sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.