Mark 7:1-4 - The Role of Tradition

Mark 7:1-4
The Pharisees and some of the scribes gathered around Him when they had come from Jerusalem, ² and had seen that some of His disciples were eating their bread with impure hands, that is, unwashed. ³ (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they carefully wash their hands, thus observing the traditions of the elders; ⁴ and when they come from the market place, they do not eat unless they cleanse themselves; and there are many other things which they have received in order to observe, such as the washing of cups and pitchers and copper pots.)

Message: The Role of Tradition

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - In Mark 1:15 are the words from Jesus - The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand, repent and believe in the gospel. Jesus initially calls a few to be his disciples and later expands it to 12. He will send out his disciples to speak this message of the kingdom of God. Along the way, Jesus performs many different types of miracles: physical healings, spiritual healings such as forgiveness, power over nature. There is the clear testimony of His power throughout these pages as He shares his message with the masses but also intimately with his disciples showing always his reliance on God and the power of God in people's lives. Jesus has become very popular in this area as many are coming to him to experience Him, to experience God.

There is the idea that Mark's intended audience for his book was a Gentile audience and verses 3 and 4 support this because he takes time to explain eating and washing requirements that would been understood by a Jewish audience while Gentiles do not know the customs of Jewish people.

This passage calls attention to the fact that the Pharisees and some of the scribes...had seen that some of His disciples were eating their bread with impure hands, that is, unwashed. The act itself of washing one's hands prior to eating is not a bad one, but what is being addressed here is a law that has been erected by Pharisees and kept in order to separate themselves from others and signify that they have kept rules and practices that in turn ensure that they are the ones most serious about their faith. 

Joseph Benson commentary states:
The Pharisees, therefore, being very zealous in these trifles, would not eat at any time unless they washed their hands with the greatest care. From this source came that endless variety of purifications not prescribed in the law, but ordained by the elders. These ordinances, though they were of human invention, came at length to be looked upon as essential in religion; they were exalted to such a pitch, that, in comparison of them, the law of God was suffered to lie neglected and forgotten, as is here signified.

Verse 3 remarks that these are not words from Moses' law, but rather observing the traditions of the elders. Perhaps Jesus is simply emphasizing to his disciples that these traditions of men are just that traditions that each person decides whether or not they are useful, but they do not rise to a level of being a requirement for a person. Most likely this infuriated the Pharisees who possibly were following Jesus around, waiting to see something that they could call him on as being irreligious. 

Summary - Mark pauses a moment in his gospel to bring attention to the Pharisees and their attack on Jesus for doing things that are contrary to the laws and traditions they have followed. Jesus permits his disciples to eat without clean hands. 

Promise: Human traditions can be helpful. However, we must be careful to not elevate them to a status of divine revelation.

Prayer: Lord, help me to know the difference between what I must do and what I can do. Thank you for the freedom of Christ, but help me not to make that mean that you do not still have clear commandments that are there to protect me and make my life the best it can be. Give me wisdom to discern what I should and should not do each day. I want you to be glorified.

Mark 6:53-56 - Healings in Gennesaret

Mark 6:53-56
53 When they had crossed over they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. 54 When they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognized Him, 55 and ran about that whole country and began to carry here and there on their pallets those who were sick, to the place they heard He was. 56 Wherever He entered villages, or cities, or countryside, they were laying the sick in the market places, and imploring Him that they might just touch the fringe of His cloak; and as many as touched it were being cured.

Message: Healings in Gennesaret

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus comes to Nazareth and continues to teach but also experiences a little opposition from his friends and family. He sends out his disciples to teach and heal. The message is becoming more well known. Herod Antipas, one of 4 rulers of Rome, wonders if Jesus is a resurrected John (John has previously been killed by him and that story is recounted I think partly to show us that the message of the gospel is sometimes not well received). The disciples return and report on what they have done and taught. Jesus sends them away for rest, but the people are there waiting for them, in the 1000s. Jesus teaches the people. The disciples then send them away for food, but Jesus shows the disciples how they can be fed, feeding over 5,000. Jesus then puts the disciples on a boat, sends the people away, and goes to the mountain to pray. Jesus continues to teach the disciples, showing them that he is in control of all and wherever they go they can trust him. No matter what the experience presents itself to them, he can still be trusted. He will literally and figuratively calm whatever comes into their lives.

It is interesting, Mark speaks a lot about Jesus healing. It remains of interest to me what Mark emphasizes in this gospel of Jesus as the gospels seem to me to express the basis of all that we all hold dear in scripture. Thus far the message of Jesus has been simple - repent and believe - and be forgiven. There are other subjects that have come up as Jesus communicates to us that he is more than simply a man and this is what Mark seems to be emphasizing over and over. Jesus is walking as a man, but is more than a man.

As they get off the boat and are in Gennesaret, which is across from the Sea of Galilee, Jesus and the disciples come upon a lot of people. Word of Jesus has spread. This is clear. In the feeding of the 5,000, there were thought to be double of triple this amount as 5,000 only spoke of the men. People had come from many other places to see Jesus. And now Jesus sets foot in Gennesaret and once again word of him is out. Perhaps any one of the disciples has already been to this region and spoken of him as well. On a note, Mark's gospel actually offers a difference from the other gospels in this account. While being in Gennesaret isn't a problem, Mark gives the idea that they came from Bethsaida whereas the rest of the gospels speak of the feeding occurring in Bethsaida. For Mark, after the feeding they got in a boat and went to Bethsaida. I've read several accounts and explanations for this, but the consensus is that this is an unanswered question and the writers couldn't have known at the time that every word of there's would be placed under a microscope.

When they got out of the boat, immediately [the people] recognized Him, and ran about that whole country and began to carry here and there on their pallets those who were sick. In some ways most of the gospel so far has been about healings and miracles. Yet, lately it seems that Jesus is still trying to teach his disciples. Wherever He entered villages, or cities, or countryside, they were laying the sick in the market places, and imploring Him that they might just touch the fringe of His cloak; and as many as touched it were being cured. Again, the focus in this passage is Jesus healing. But the people believe in His Power because their desire is simply to touch the fringe of His garment. Like the woman in the crowd who was healed just by touching Jesus' garment, this is the common faith now also. Again, what mere man could have this kind of power over people's lives?

as many as touched it were being cured - this is most compelling. The mere touch resulted in being cured. But, if all Jesus is, is a healer, then people have missed the point. Yes, he is there to change our lives, but it is more than this. Because of His Power, we can trust in who he is and all that he says. He is not a momentary need to our lives, but we need Him every hour. He is on earth, testifying or showing people the true God.

Summary - Jesus and the disciples come to the City of Gennesaret and word of Jesus has spread to the point that people come to him in waves bringing people to Jesus for healing, only wanting to touch his garment to receive healing. Their faith in him is great.

Promise: God is sovereign and he chooses to heal whom he heals. We come to him by faith. But ultimately we trust in Him and see that He has power over our lives in ways that go beyond a healing touch of a physical sickness.

Prayer: Lord, give me understanding of this text and what it means to me today. Thank you for the testimony of this text and the faith of the people that came to you, merely to touch you, to receive their healing. Lord, I pray that my faith is like this.

 

Mark 6:47-52 - Jesus Walks on Water

Mark 6:47-52
47 When it was evening, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and He was alone on the land. 48 Seeing them straining at the oars, for the wind was against them, at about the fourth watch of the night He *came to them, walking on the sea; and He intended to pass by them. 49 But when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed that it was a ghost, and cried out; 50 for they all saw Him and were terrified. But immediately He spoke with them and *said to them, “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid.” 51 Then He got into the boat with them, and the wind stopped; and they were utterly astonished, 52 for they had not gained any insight from the incident of the loaves, but their heart was hardened.

Message: Jesus Walks on Water

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus comes to Nazareth and continues to teach but also experiences a little opposition from his friends and family. He sends out his disciples to teach and heal, as necessary. The message is becoming more well known. Herod Antipas, one of 4 rulers of Rome, wonders if Jesus is a resurrected John (John has previously been killed by him and that story is recounted I think partly to show us that the message of the gospel is sometimes not well received). The disciples return and report on what they have done and taught. Jesus sends them away for rest, but the people are there waiting for them, in the 1000s. Jesus teaches the people. The disciples then send them away for food, but Jesus shows the disciples how they can be fed. Jesus then puts the disciples on a boat, sends the people away, and goes to the mountain to pray.

When it was evening, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and He was alone on the land. This is no accident. Jesus is once again going to teach the disciples something. Most recently, Jesus has commissioned his disciples to be witnesses and do the work of restoring lives, physically and spiritually. Yet, the disciples still have lessons to learn. In the feeding of the 5,000 to me the lesson to the disciples was "you can do it. you have my power. let me show you what that means." And now as he prepares to walk on the water, he is giving them another message.

Seeing them straining at the oars, for the wind was against them, at about the fourth watch of the night He *came to them, walking on the sea; and He intended to pass by them. The disciples were in a boat, working together, trying simply to stay in their boat and go forth as the wind is against them. It is not a calm sea and suddenly Jesus, on the water, approaches them. There world is swirling and he is walking. They are fighting against the elements of nature and he is walking. They are in the middle of hostility and he is walking.

But when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed that it was a ghost, and cried out; for they all saw Him and were terrified. As they saw him, they thought they were seeing a ghost. Though he has done amazing things to this point, any time he does something new they are amazed and startled and don't immediately think that it is real.

But immediately He spoke with them and *said to them, “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid. It is simple. I have not changed. Though the world and nature is crazy about and a mystery and an unknown, I have not changed. Do not be afraid.

Then He got into the boat with them, and the wind stopped. The wind was in motion to challenge them. He was once again teaching them by putting them in this boat. He was showing them a lesson.

And they were utterly astonished, for they had not gained any insight from the loaves, but their heart was hardened. See, did they learn anything from the loaves? No. Currently, though Jesus has commissioned them and wants them to share the message he has of repentance and believe, they still do not comprehend it all. They are still unsure of many things, including Jesus and his power. Yet, Jesus still wants to use them and believes they can be effective. Jesus knows that they can be used.

Summary - Jesus continues to teach the disciples, showing them that he is in control of all and wherever they go they can trust him. No matter what the experience presents itself to them, he can still be trusted. He will literally and figuratively calm whatever comes into their lives.

Promise: Just being with Jesus is not enough to create faith in our hearts. The only hope is for God to take out our hearts of stone that refuse to believe and to give us hearts of flesh that beat with faith in Christ (Ez 36:26).

Prayer: Lord, give people what they need most: new hearts. I talk to many people and they all need new hearts. Thank you for the movie I saw this weekend - I Can Only Imagine - and how Bart witnessed what you and only you could do in the life of a person. It was an amazing thing to see him experience You and have his eyes opened. Thank you for the beautiful story that I just wanted to see again and again. Keep changing hearts. Keep changing me. Give me patience and sensitivity to those that are not there - like the two Derek's in my life. Bring them to you. I wait with expectation and hope, trusting in You.

Mark 6:45-46 - The Prayer Life of Jesus

Mark 6:45-46
⁴⁵ Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side to Bethsaida, while He Himself was sending the crowd away. ⁴⁶ After bidding them farewell, He left for the mountain to pray.

Message: The Prayer Life of Jesus

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus is in Nazareth, his hometown, but he doesn't get the reception that we would think. Instead of welcoming him, people question him. But he continues with his message of repent and believe. Jesus is becoming more and more well known and his message is reaching further and further. With that sometimes comes misunderstanding. Herod Antipas, one of 4 rulers of Rome now, wonders if Jesus is a resurrected John. Mark then explains how John was killed, mainly because Herodias was confronted with her sin and was upset at John. Now, the apostles arrive back after Jesus had sent them out. Jesus has them go off to a secluded place to get rest, but mobs of people swarm them and Jesus realizes these people need to be taught, so he does that, teaches them. Then the disciple see that they need to eat and send them away, but Jesus reminds the disciples that they can feed these people. Jesus shows them how with God it is possible.

Again, it seems that Jesus is more focused right now on his disciples and teaching them. It makes sense. He has sent them out, to spread the gospel, to share the message of repentance and believe, and teach people. He has given them the authority to cast out demons. He has told them they can trust people to provide for them wherever they go. Perhaps they are still learning what this means. The feeding of over 5,000 was one way to teach them that wherever they go they can depend on God to provide not only their need but people's needs as well.

Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side to Bethsaida. It is not immediately clear to me why he ushered them away and then He Himself was sending the crowd away other than the fact that He imply needed to leave for the mountain to pray. Perhaps he simply needed to get away and be alone. It makes sense. Jesus, especially, who was the center of all the attention right now, knew that time to be alone, to pray, was always important.

In some ways it is difficult to understand why it was important for Jesus to pray, based upon my understanding of Jesus and his eternal communion with the Father, but I suppose we are similar, to a degree, as the Holy Spirit has been given to us, to live inside, and yet we need that time in prayer as well. We need it daily. Jesus took time to get away, to be alone. If he need it, I must need it as well. But, Jesus is fully God and fully man. Thus, as a man, prayer is a part of his life on earth.

Jesus does send the disciples away, to be alone, but to be alone together, on a ship. He does desire them to be together, to go at life together. Jesus is teaching them something. He is teaching them dependence on Him.

Summary - Jesus asks the disciples to get in a boat, to be together, to perhaps have this time to once again think about their dependence on Him. He is preparing them for something to come, perhaps another test. Meanwhile, he needs time to himself as well. He sends the people away and then goes to the mountain to pray. He is fully man and he needs to pray.

Promise: When we are faced with temptation and need sustenance in life and ministry, we need to turn to God in prayer. God will sustain us.

Prayer: O Lord God, prayer, quiet prayer and solitude with you has always been a struggle for me. There are men and women of God that I have seen throughout time, EM Bounds, AW Tozer, Willa McCurdy, my mom -- these are all people that I have wanted to be like, but I struggle with the daily habit of taking alone time to speak to you. Lord, I know you are with me and you do not grade me, and perhaps I am tougher on myself than I need to be, but I do desire to walk with You and take things before you. Thank you for using the prayers I offer through the Jesus Calling posts to encourage others. It amazes me that those simple prayers can touch people, but that is you at work in me and I give you all the glory. I am just blessed to be a part of that. Lord, I walk with you, on this journey of life, and continue to help me learn from You and trust you.

Mark 6:35-44 - Five Thousand Men Fed

Mark 6:35-44
³⁵ When it was already quite late, His disciples came to Him and said, “This place is desolate and it is already quite late; ³⁶ send them away so that they may go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” ³⁷ But He answered them, “You give them something to eat!” And they *said to Him, “Shall we go and spend two hundred denarii on bread and give them something to eat?” ³⁸ And He *said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go look!” And when they found out, they *said, “Five, and two fish.” ³⁹ And He commanded them all to sit down by groups on the green grass. ⁴⁰ They sat down in groups of hundreds and of fifties. ⁴¹ And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward heaven, He blessed the food and broke the loaves and He kept giving them to the disciples to set before them; and He divided up the two fish among them all. ⁴² They all ate and were satisfied, ⁴³ and they picked up twelve full baskets of the broken pieces, and also of the fish. ⁴⁴ There were five thousand men who ate the loaves.

Message: Five Thousand Men Fed

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus is in Nazareth, his hometown, but he doesn't get the reception that we would think. Instead of welcoming him, people question him. But he continues with his message of repent and believe. Jesus is becoming more and more well known and his message is reaching further and further. With that sometimes comes misunderstanding. Herod Antipas, one of 4 rulers of Rome now, wonders if Jesus is a resurrected John. John is killed mainly because Herodias was confronted with her sin and was upset at John. Now, the apostles arrive back after Jesus had sent them out. Jesus has them go off to a secluded place to get rest, but mobs of people swarm them and Jesus realizes these people need to be taught, so he does that, teaches them.

Now, I come upon the feeding of 5,000 - the one miracle that is recorded in all 4 gospels. This is an interesting miracle. While many were affected, the disciples were also very affected. As a reminder, the apostles have returned from ministering and speak of what they have done first, then what they taught. As the people come to them, Jesus sees they are without a shepherd still. What is it they are really following? Jesus sees the need to teach them. Then the disciples mention turning people away now because it is time to eat. But, Jesus reminds them that he can do everything and can provide food for a few people.

Mark's words seem to really focus more on the disciples rather than the 5,000. Upon the disciples mentioning that the people need to go back to the city and countryside in order to be fed, Jesus responds to them with these words: “You give them something to eat!” Jesus has already equipped his disciples and given them the idea that there needs would be taken care of, to the point that went he sent them they did not have to be concerned about taking food, clothing, or anything. Perhaps, the disciples really didn't comprehend yet the extent of what Jesus meant by this. his authority, but perhaps they didn't have a full understand of what they could do. Perhaps I am the same way. Perhaps my faith is also weak. Maybe when God tells me to do something, I first want to figure out all the details, get all the training, do all my homework, getting comfortable and prepared and then I go. It is hard to know. But, clearly the disciples looked at their situation and didn't first think that this could be a spiritual solution, a God-sized solution. Instead, they stared at their surroundings. 

So, I'm not saying that every situation in life can simply be addressed by faith without asking any questions. But, do I approach situations with a confidence in the Savior? Or am I too quick to stare at limitations and current situations and assume that I then have all the understanding. 

In Judaism, this prayer is common -- Praise to you, O Lord our God, king of the world, who makes bread to come forth from the earth, and who provides for all that you have created. 

This prayer now takes on a meaning from this miracle. God did indeed make bread come forth from the earth. It says that There were five thousand men who ate the loaves. Chances are then that many more than 5,000 were fed if only the men were counted. The majority of commentaries have the population of Nazareth at this time to be 1500 but some say smaller, while others larger. The fact that so many people had come to this area, following Jesus and his disciples therefore is significant and also speaks to the time frame. I read the Bible thinking it is daily accounts, but it is more possible that the time between Jesus asking his disciples to go to a secluded place and the feeding of the 5,000 was weeks, in order to support the coming of all of these people as it does say in verse 33 - The people saw them going, and many recognized them and ran there together on foot from all the cities, and got there ahead of them.

Summary - The disciples are told by Jesus to feed these people that have come to them to listen to Jesus' teaching. The disciples see that the only solution is to send them away and let them fend for themselves, but Jesus tells the disciples to feed them. They don't understand how, so Jesus shows them his hand of providence. Jesus takes care of the situation. 

Promise: Jesus meets our needs, all of them. 

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this reminder that you are our provider and you take care of our needs, my needs. When you call us, you promise to provide for us as well. We are people too often of little faith. Thank you for this reminder that you do provide. I want to trust you always. Help my faith to increase.  

Mark 6:30-34 - Sheep Without A Shepherd

Mark 6:30-34
³⁰ The apostles *gathered together with Jesus; and they reported to Him all that they had done and taught. ³¹ And He *said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while.” (For there were many people coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.) ³² They went away in the boat to a secluded place by themselves.
³³ The people saw them going, and many recognized them and ran there together on foot from all the cities, and got there ahead of them. ³⁴ When Jesus went ashore, He saw a large crowd, and He felt compassion for them because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and He began to teach them many things.

Message: Sheep Without A Shepherd

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus is now in Nazareth, his hometown, but he doesn't get the reception that we would think. Instead of welcoming him, people question him. But he continues with his message of repent and believe. Jesus is becoming more and more well known and his message is reaching further and further. With that sometimes comes misunderstanding. Herod Antipas, one of 4 rulers of Rome now, wonders if Jesus is a resurrected John. At this, Mark diverts a little to tell us about John and his relationship with Herod and then his untimely death at the hands of Herod because his new wife Herodias felt shame over John's words about her marrying Herod and leaving her 1st husband in order to move up the social ladder.

Jesus has previously sent out his apostles. Multiplying the gospel message is key and Jesus commissions these men to do the work of the gospel, giving them the authority as well to heal people and exercise demons. The apostles gathered together with Jesus; and they reported to Him all that they had done and taught. The apostles were returning to Jesus to tell him all that they had done and taught. Notice, done precedes taught as if, even with the apostles, there was something more electrifying about the miracles that had been performed than the message that had gone out. 

Jesus' response to the apostles is Come away by yourselves to a secluded place and rest a while. Jesus knows that they are probably exhausted from their work, perhaps even defaulting to healing people rather than focusing more squarely on the message. They have a need to retreat and rest. We all have this need. I have this need as I am taking 2 days off from work right now in order to take a rest before my new boss starts on Monday. I need a break as well. Jesus, upon creation, gave us a Sabbath day to rest. 

But, this doesn't mean the people will let people rest: They went away in the boat to a secluded place by themselves. The people saw them going, and many recognized them and ran there together on foot from all the cities, and got there ahead of them. It is not clear what the people's motivation was at this time. Was it the radical message or was it the miracles? I'm noticed thus far that Mark is not yet communicating in much detail the message of what Jesus is bringing but he is honed in more on the responses of people. In some ways there is a somewhat hidden message of belief and repentance that is going on in these passages. 

• Jesus performs miracles mostly related to healing and casting out of demons 1:21-2:12
• Controversy is seen in Jesus' friendship with sinners, over Sabbath-work, over Sabbath-healing, Opposition by his Friends 2:13-3:35
• Jesus provides parables that speak to the mission of his disciples but also the various responses that can be anticipated 4:1-34
• Jesus performs miracles more focused on his dominion over the sea, death and dying 4:35-5:43
• Even as the message goes out, there is sometimes misunderstanding of who Jesus is and what he is doing 5:44-6:34

And this is where today's passage brings us. We are witnessing Jesus' power in these passages, his power over lives and people and nature, but that doesn't necessarily mean the message is being received. It is hard to tell. He remarks that they were like sheep without a shepherd; and He began to teach them many things. As enamored as people were, they were still needing to be taught. 

Perhaps this is what Mark is trying to convey - there is importance in Jesus teaching as he is showing that Jesus keeps coming back to the message. Yet, why is he being so descriptive about the miracles as this is leading up now to the feeding of 5,000 and Jesus walking on the Water. Is this an attempt to build a crowd first and then provide them the message? Is this often what our churches are doing today? Are they providing something fun to bring people into the church? Often, I see this. Whether it is a carnival instead of Halloween or an event at a park, there are these opportunities to bring people in the door. However, the message of the Gospel, of sin, of repentance and believing must be central. We don't do all of those things to then give them a self-help seminar. 

Summary - The apostles have arrived, back from there journey of teaching and doing. Jesus sees that they need a rest, but the masses are still running after them. Jesus remarks that these people are still wondering like sheep without a shepherd. He responds then by teaching them. What they need is to learn and be taught. 

Promise: We need to sit under the solid teaching of God's word. The message is what changes lives, permanently. People will be enamored and flock to Him because of miracles, but the crux is the gospel to believe and surrender, turn from our sin and go continually toward God. 

Prayer: Thank you for Mark Lord and the message that I read from him. At times, I am not sure what I am to learn. I want to know you, through Mark's lens which I know mostly comes from Peter, but I want to know you as these men did in the time you walked the earth. Help me to rediscover you and know you in the way you wanted to be known. Help me to understand your message. Thank you for Godly men and women you have commissioned throughout the ages to teach us. Thank you for equipping and inspiring many. I pray that I too can rest when I need to. Thank you for being my Shepherd and showing me the way.

Mark 6:21-29 - Herod's Unlawful Oath

Mark 6:21-29

²¹ A strategic day came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his lords and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee; ²² and when the daughter of Herodias herself came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you want and I will give it to you.” ²³ And he swore to her, “Whatever you ask of me, I will give it to you; up to half of my kingdom.” ²⁴ And she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” ²⁵ Immediately she came in a hurry to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” ²⁶ And although the king was very sorry, yet because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests, he was unwilling to refuse her. ²⁷ Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded him to bring back his head. And he went and had him beheaded in the prison, ²⁸ and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. ²⁹ When his disciples heard about this, they came and took away his body and laid it in a tomb.

Message: Herod's Unlawful Oath

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus arrives in Nazareth, about a 3 day journey from Capernaum. He has made it to his hometown and he speaks in the synagogue. Many of his people did not accept him; he continued to heal, but maybe not to the extent that he could because of their unbelief. The message still goes out. Jesus commissions his disciples with the message of repentance. Many hear of Jesus and his message, wondering where he came from and who He really is: prophet, priest, king. Included in this wondering is Herod Antipas, who killed John the Baptist. John called out the sins of Herod Antipas and his wife and they responded with violence against John the Baptist. Yet, Herod Antipas was conflicted in his feelings about John the Baptist, feeling obligated to please his wife and yet also having fascination for the message that John brought to him.

The story of John the Baptist and Herod Antipas, the Roman ruler, continues in this passage. Herod had imprisoned John at Macherus, a fortified palace located east of the Jordan River. A celebration of some sort is given in Herod's honor, perhaps his birthday. At this celebration,  the daughter of Herodias herself came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The words express that this dance was perhaps sensual which emphasizes still more the depravity of these people's lives whereby the daughter of Herodias, Salome, gave a dance that made everyone happy and pleased. In response to this performance the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you want and I will give it to you.” And he swore to her, “Whatever you ask of me, I will give it to you; up to half of my kingdom.” Here Herod makes a vow that he will have to uphold. Whatever is asked he will feel obligated to do as he will want to save his face before the dinner guests. Salome consults with her mother and it is stated I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter. As has been discussed, Herod is trying to save the life of John the Baptist, but although the king was very sorry, yet because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests, he was unwilling to refuse her.
Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded him to bring back his head. And he went and had him beheaded in the prison, and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. The deed had been done. John had been executed. 

Herod was infatuated with John. He liked his preaching, but not to the extent that the preacher's words had an effect on him to change his works. People are moved by good preaching all of the time, but do the actions of our lives show any change. How now shall we live. I wonder about this often because I hear so many messages and I wonder how my life is being lived differently. I generally conclude that I am a slow person. Do I really believe that God is the one that changes hearts? I need to pray for this more.

Summary - After Herod Antipas tried to keep John alive, in prison, he gets caught in his own words and saving his own face by pledging to do whatever someone requests and the request that is made is to kill John. Because Herod simply had his ears tickled and never made a change of heart, he goes along with that which is in his own best interest: and John is killed. 

Promise: The Gospel Message is truth, but people receive it differently. Some are ready for it and some just take it as interesting fodder. John lost his life but he still had a great impact. 

Prayer: Lord, I pray that the message of the Gospel would continue to change lives. Lord, I pray that you would always be glorified. It hurts when people do not have a desire to follow you and glorify you, but we can still trust in You. Thank you for choosing John and that he is now safe in your care. Help us to stay eternity minded. Lord, I want to be a person of change, who is affected by the Godly messages I hear each day.

Mark 6:19b-20 - Herod's Discernment

Mark 6:19b-20
¹⁹ could not do so; ²⁰ for Herod was afraid of John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. And when he heard him, he was very perplexed; but he used to enjoy listening to him.

Message: Herod's Discernment

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus arrives in Nazareth, about a 3 day journey from Capernaum. He has made it to his hometown and he speaks in the synagogue. Many of his people did not accept him; he continued to heal, but maybe not to the extent that he could because of their unbelief. The message still goes out. Jesus commissions his disciples with the message of repentance. Many hear of Jesus and his message, wondering where he came from and who He really is: prophet, priest, king. Included in this wondering is Herod Antipas, who killed John the Baptist. John called out the sins of Herod Antipas and his wife and they responded with violence against John the Baptist.

At first glance, this reminds me of the death of Jesus. Pontius Pilate, like Herod, I don't think was convinced that Jesus' death was justified, as Herod was towards John the Baptist. There was something special and different about these men. For Herod he used to enjoy listening to him. Herod knew that John was a holy and righteous man. Despite the depravity of man, man seems to still be intrigued by righteousness. 

Many people love good preaching, as long as that preaching stays away from their sin and confronting it. This is often the danger in preaching then, to not speak of sin, but to give the audience what they want, a feel good message, a message of self-improvement, rather than exposing sin. Herodias initially wanted to put him to death, and could not. Herod would not allow it because he received a benefit from John being alive. This is the message of this passage - the conflict that occurred with Herod regarding John. 

The word fear in verse 20, in the Greek, is a mixture of reverence and superstitious dread towards the prophet and man of God. Most likely there were frequent meetings that took place between the two.  He was not worthy of execution. Perhaps he did not understand him completely, but he was not worthy of death.

Summary - This is a message to remind me of the importance of staying true to the Gospel message. Herod Antipas was obviously conflicted in his feelings about John the Baptist, feeling obligated to please his wife and yet also having fascination for the message that John brought to him.

Promise: The truth of God's word will get through to people. We do not need to change the gospel to make people recognize its truth. We should be faithful to proclaim it.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the way your messages penetrate our lives. Help preachers and people stay true to the message of repentance and exposing sin in people. Help me Lord to be this type of speaker. Sin is real and it needs to be at the forefront of our speaking.

Mark 6:17-19a - Confronting Public Sins

Mark 6:17-19a
¹⁷ For Herod himself had sent and had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, because he had married her. ¹⁸ For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” ¹⁹ Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. 

Message: Confronting Public Sins


Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus arrives in Nazareth, about a 3 day journey from Capernaum. He has made it to his hometown and he speaks in the synagogue. Many of his people did not accept him; he continued to heal, but maybe not to the extent that he could because of their unbelief. The message still goes out. Jesus commissions his disciples with the message of repentance. Many hear of Jesus and his message, wondering where he came from and who He really is: prophet, priest, king. Included in this wondering is Herod Antipas, who killed John the Baptist.

Herod and his family are known for their cruelty. Near the time of Jesus' birth, Herod had all boys age two and younger in Bethlehem murdered. His son, Herod Antipas, married an Arabian princess, then divorced her to marry Herodias, who was married to Antipas brother, Philip. Herodias was Herod Antipas niece. Herodias left Philip for Antipas in hopes of social advancement. Old Testament law forbid this.

In today's passage is the record that John the Baptist made it known that this was wrong. Faithfulness to the Word of God was key. And John the Baptist took a stand against sins of society and it cost him. For Herod himself had sent and had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias. At this time, it was wrong to speak out against the rulers of the kingdom. That was a crime that could put a person in prison and for John that happened. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”

Today, I think the sins of society are so plentiful that while Christians call out sins they very often have to deal with the same sins within Christendom as well. Yet, do we not still have a responsibility to divide the truth and call out sin or do we often revert too quickly to subtle toleration by the words: "don't judge." Another problem I see is sins are so abundant in society. Blasphemy, adultery, idolatry, coveting, lying, slander, sabbath keeping and thievery are some examples of sins that have become socially acceptable that to confront these sins would be a full-time job. 

And yet, isn't it the obligation of the Christian to defend truth by exposing the lies that are being put forth? I believe, however, that we as Christians, because of our quest always for personal safety and preserving comfort, end up not confronting these sins and instead choose to focus on other truths of the Word like loving one another in hopes that the Gospel itself would change people. 

People hate to be confronted with their sin. We will often defend our actions with excuses or point the finger at others, repeating the sin of Eve - the devil made me do it. Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. For Herodias this turned into not simply having John the Baptist in prison, but wanting him put to death. her sin of greed and power, which I'm sure she was justified, resulted in changing husbands and she was not about to have that questioned. Thus, John is martyred for his faith. 

Summary -  The message of the Gospel, while good news to many that understand they are sinners and see the need to repent, for others who believe their sin is justified and therefore, not sin at all, do not want to be told the opposite. But, Christians still have an obligation to call out sin in others, as John the Baptist did and Herod Antipas and his wife took offense of this.

Promise: Christians and the church are to preach against the sins of the state and call both leaders and citizens to repentance. Keep preaching repentance.  

Prayer: Lord, while I want to be a man of the Word, I admit I get caught up in comfort and safety and preserving my livelihood. Forgive me for my selfishness and the way in which I do not defend truth but defend personal safety. Give me wisdom in this day about being true to Truth. I'm too caught up on comfort. I'm too caught up on self-preservation. Lord, give me strength and help me understand what I need to do about confronting the sins of our culture. I do want to follow you Lord in all of the correct ways. Giving you glory, I want this to be my greatest goal.

Mark 6:14-16 - The Allure of Holiness

Mark 6:14-16
¹⁴ And King Herod heard of it, for His name had become well known; and people were saying, “John the Baptist has risen from the dead, and that is why these miraculous powers are at work in Him.” ¹⁵ But others were saying, “He is Elijah.” And others were saying, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” ¹⁶ But when Herod heard of it, he kept saying, “John, whom I beheaded, has risen!”
 
Message: The Allure of Holiness

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus arrives in Nazareth, about a 3 day journey from Capernaum. He has made it to his hometown and he speaks in the synagogue, as he has done elsewhere. Many of his people did not accept him; he continued to heal, but maybe not to the extent that he could because of the unbelief present in Nazareth. The message still goes out. Jesus commissions his disciples with the message and send them out with nothing on their backs. Their needs will taken care of on their journeys. But the message of the Gospel--repentance--must go forth.

This passage centers on what happened to John the Baptist, who hasn't been on the scene since chapter 2 when John is mentioned as fasting along with the his disciples (John is not one of the 12 disciples). And King Herod heard - this is Herod Antipas, who inherited one-fourth of his father's kingdom after the death of Herod the great. As the message of the gospel of repentance goes out Herod hears of it - for His name (Jesus) had become well known. Perhaps what people were hearing was a man doing great things. 

And people were saying, “John the Baptist has risen from the dead, and that is why these miraculous powers are at work in Him.” But others were saying, “He is Elijah.” And others were saying, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he kept saying, “John, whom I beheaded, has risen!”

What is clear is people are fascinated with spiritual men. Even though Herod beheaded John the Baptist, at the request of his daughter, he knew that he was a spiritual man. Even though he had him killed, he still knew he had something special in him. He may have rejected him, but there was still an allure about him.

Our world today is continually marveled at spiritual men. On the heels of the death of Billy Graham, many men, some of faith, some not, have been interviewed and their remarks of Billy Graham are all similar. This passage also reminds me that people everywhere try to come up with explanations for spiritual things that are often not accurate. There are many messages of untruth that get presented and communicated throughout our world regarding spiritual things. We need to be people of discernment, to look to scripture and let it define the truth. I think we all must be careful about attaching to certain people that they are people of the Truth. Just because someone speaks of him does not mean they have a relationship with him. 

Summary - As the message goes forth, we need to realize that many will jump on board. There is an allure to Jesus as a great spiritual leader to some, but his real message is one of repentance and self-denial and following him in our every day life. We must always come back to the scripture and lean on the Holy Spirit and allowing the Truth to shine.

Promise: Even the most ardent skeptics are quick to admit that Jesus is a compelling figure. 

Prayer: Help me Lord to be discerning. Thank you that there is truth and excitement and majesty in who You are. There is a special allure that you have. This is real. Help me to be a person to testify of the truth of who You are. Equip me. Keep me a disciple of truth. Give me understanding and wisdom of who You are as I want to be one who testifies of who You are.  

Mark 6:7-13 - Jesus Sends Out the Twelve

Mark 6:7-13
⁷ And He *summoned the twelve and began to send them out in pairs, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits; ⁸ and He instructed them that they should take nothing for their journey, except a mere staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belt— ⁹ but to wear sandals; and He added, “Do not put on two tunics.” ¹⁰ And He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave town. ¹¹ Any place that does not receive you or listen to you, as you go out from there, shake the dust off the soles of your feet for a testimony against them.” ¹² They went out and preached that men should repent. ¹³ And they were casting out many demons and were anointing with oil many sick people and healing them.
 
Message: Jesus Sends Out the Twelve

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - Jesus arrives in Nazareth, about a 3 day journey from Capernaum. He has made it to his hometown and he speaks in the synagogue, as he has done elsewhere. The people of Nazareth did not accept Jesus. Jesus continued to heal people, but maybe not to the extent that he could because of the unbelief present in Nazareth. But the message of the Gospel still goes out. We must continue to teach and spread the Good News. The reception may be different but our mission does not change.

Jesus is on mission. His desire is to get the message of the gospel out to the people. He is asking people to repent and believe. Mark 1:15 stated this - The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe. Along the way Jesus has healed many, exercised demons, but also extended the message of repentance and believing. He has spoken with authority, forgiving sin, teaching about the purpose of the Sabbath. He has spoken of the different soils or conditions of man. He has shown his authority over nature: stilling the sea and taking charge of weather. And he has declared that he has power over death.

Now in verse 7, Jesus began to send them out in pairs, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. Jesus commissioned the twelve and gave them a special type of authority. They were not to go solo, but in pairs. In my own life, I have seen that going to minister in pairs is much more effective and easier than going at it solo. It is important that we support and encourage one another in the work of the gospel. The fact that he gave them authority over unclean spirits and could pass along this authority testifies of the power that He had and only Him to do this. He wanted his teaching to be spread. This authority he gives them is one time and not to be repeated because only Jesus has the authority. 

And He instructed them that they should take nothing for their journey, except a mere staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belt— but to wear sandals; and He added, “Do not put on two tunics.” He wanted them to travel light. They are to rely on the generosity of others as they go forth. For these disciples they were to trust that people would provide them what they needed. They only needed their walking shoes. They did not need a bag, money or change of clothing. Ministers of the gospel are not to be worldly minded, but heavenly minded and trusting God for his provision. People are hospitable, helpful, and giving. This is no accident. Jesus knew this because God made people like this. Therefore, the disciples do not need to feel like they need everything with them before they go.


And He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave town. As strangers entered a town, the neighbors of the city took them in. They were there to speak a message and share. They were not there to stay a long time. People are more willing to help if you do not stay a long time. They were not to be a burden to anyone.

Any place that does not receive you or listen to you, as you go out from there, shake the dust off the soles of your feet for a testimony against them. They were not to be surprised with the fact that some will not accept him. Just as Jesus, even in his hometown, was not accepted, we will encounter places that do not accept the message of the gospel. But we are not to be discouraged, but simply shake it off and move on. 

They went out and preached that men should repent. The gospel message stays the same: repent. People are to turn from their wicked ways and embrace God. People are to realize they are sinners and need forgiveness. Today, at times, is the feeling that we must first show people that they have disobeyed God, that we must instruct people on what it means to be a sinner. Yet, sin seems to be more clear in each person than we think. While preaching the message of repentance, they were casting out many demons and were anointing with oil many sick people and healing them. The casting out of demons and anointing people and healing them was an expression of the work of God in their lives. It further testified of the work and goodness of God. 

Summary - The mission of Jesus and his ministry is simple - get the message out. Jesus knew that he could be more effective in this by sending out the twelve disciples he had called. Thankfully, many are there to provide disciples a meal, a place to stay. People are giving. But, at times we will encounter people that are not. Do not dwell on them. Move on. Always stay focused on the gospel message. People are to repent. Repentance is the key. 

Promise: The message does not change because of people's response. 

Prayer: Lord, thank you for loving us and knowing what we need. Thank you for the message of repentance, for realizing that we need to take a 180 in our lives and go the opposite way. Help me as your bond-servant to continue to get that message out. I pray that I would be faithful to the call and help people see the importance of repenting. Thank you for men like Billy Graham and their faithfulness to the gospel message. Thank you for using him to change lives. I pray that we continue to be faithful to the message of the gospel.