Mark 9:25-29
25 When Jesus saw that a crowd was rapidly gathering, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You deaf and mute spirit, I command you, come out of him and do not enter him again.” 26 After crying out and throwing him into terrible convulsions, it came out; and the boy became so much like a corpse that most of them said, “He is dead!” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and raised him; and he got up. 28 When He came into the house, His disciples began questioning Him privately, “Why could we not drive it out?” 29 And He said to them, “This kind cannot come out by anything but prayer.”
Message: Dependence on Christ
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 - After coming down the mountain, from the
transfiguration, Jesus encounters his other disciples with scribes. A man with his son who is possessed with a
spirit his entire life that makes him mute is here. No one can do anything for this man and Jesus remarks that he (still) has before him an unbelieving generation, for
their is no sign that any healing of this boy has occurred. The
man then wonders if Jesus can heal his son. If is the key word. Jesus speaks plainly that it isn't a
question of can he do it, but will the man believe that he can do it.
All things are possible to him who believes.
When Jesus saw that a crowd was rapidly gathering, He rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You deaf and mute spirit, I command you, come out of him and do not enter him again.” Jesus does what Jesus does. He takes care of the situation. After crying out and throwing him into terrible convulsions, it came out. The unclean spirit isn't done yet and fights back initially, but it does come out. It's as if there is a power struggle. From all appearances, the boy became so much like a corpse that most of them said, “He is dead!”
But Jesus took him by the hand and raised him; and he got up. Whether the boy actually died here is not important, but there is a picture here that Jesus has been speaking to the disciples about more recently and that is a death and a resurrection. Jesus cast out the demon, but once the spirit left, the boy lay on the ground like a corpse. The young man was released by Jesus from demonic oppression - a picture of what it would take for Jesus to fully and finally defeat Satan.
When He came into the house, His disciples began questioning Him privately, “Why could we not drive it out?” And He said to them, “This kind cannot come out by anything but prayer.” This is a reminder to us that in matters like this there is no dependence on self but rather our dependence is on prayer. Jesus remarks, "Prayer works." In prayer, we depend on the power of God. The fact that Jesus has given them the authority to do his work doesn't mean they can do it without the dependence on the Lord. Still in these matters they need to call on the Lord for his help. Mark 3:15 remarked that Jesus in calling the disciples gave them the authority to cast out demons.
Summary - After Jesus rebukes the unclean spirit, the spirit cries out and throws him into convulsions and then comes out of the boy. While Jesus was on the mountain, being transfigured, the disciples had tried unsuccessfully to rebuke the Spirit. Jesus remarked that this kind cannot come out but by prayer.
Promise: Regular prayer reminds us that God is on the throne and our full dependence is on Him.
Prayer: O God, I thank you for prayer, that it reminds me that You are in Control of all things in my life. I need that reminder. Lord, your power is what is needed in my life. More of you. I depend on You Jesus for your love and guidance. Help me. Give me strength.
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Monday, July 16, 2018
Mark 9:20-24 - Help for Unbelief
Mark 9:20-24
20 They brought the boy to Him. When he saw Him, immediately the spirit threw him into a convulsion, and falling to the ground, he began rolling around and foaming at the mouth. 21 And He asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 It has often thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us!” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If You can?’ All things are possible to him who believes.” 24 Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, “I do believe; help my unbelief.”
Message: Help for Unbelief
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 - After coming down the mountain, from the transfiguration, Jesus encounters his other disciples with scribes and chatter is happening regarding a man with his son who is possessed with a spirit that makes him mute. The disciples saw this happening. Jesus remarks that he has before him still an unbelieving generation, for their is no sign that any healing of this boy has occurred.
As I am reading this passage, I am thinking of that Chicago Med episode I watched the other night. The mother concluded that the weird noises emitting from her daughter had to be the result of a demon in her. But, as the story went on, the doctors discovered repressed feelings from the girl having been molested by her father at a young age. No matter the outcome, the idea that the girl was possessed was met by the hospital staff as "how absurd." It was almost like explaining this situation as a spiritual thing rather than psychological or physical was absurd.
I read this passage and wonder if the demon possessions that Jesus is healing is actually the explanation of the day as to what is occurring in people's lives. Medicine and science were not well established at the time. And the very idea that something was occurring in a person made them to conclude that there must be an outside force infiltrating them. My good friend Bobby just had his 3rd cancer surgery to remove lymph nodes in his neck. He's had 110 nodes removed now and has been in surgery 17 hours total, told me this morning that, although microscopic, the cancer remains in him. As a follower of Christ, one of his thoughts of this is the result of sin in his life. And on the surface, it makes no sense for something like to happen. He is in fantastic physical condition. He is healthy. And yet this happens.
Thus, how do we explain things. We can't help but try to determine a reason why things happen in our lives. These days, we find comfort in medicine to cure what ails us in our lives. Yet, in these Bible times, medicine was somewhat not even an option for most. Natural remedies, herbs, and then hopefully healing were the sought after ways. Yet, even today, God uses medicine and doctors to heal people. It is generally all about who we end up praising when these things happen.
This is what I am thinking as I approach this passage. They brought the boy to Him. When he saw Him, immediately the spirit threw him into a convulsion, and falling to the ground, he began rolling around and foaming at the mouth. It seems clear that there is a spirit of sickness or possession, for when he saw Him (Jesus), the spirit reacted. Isn't that interesting, there was the thought that the spirit was in opposition to Jesus, almost like Jesus had authority and the spirit was resisting this authority.
Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood."
So this has been a life long problem for this child. But the man responds to Jesus not exactly exhibiting real faith. if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us! Jesus is bothered by these words, "If you can." He then responds with the same words, ‘If You can?’ It is interesting, Jesus expects a transfer of understanding to be happening in these people to the point that he is tired that the people aren't realizing faster what he can do, who he is. I wonder if he tires of this in our life. Do we have the same confidence that He will heal what ails us? I wonder if we take on the same meaning when we come to him and say, "If it be your will." Granted, it could be said we are surrendering to his will, but aren't we also questioning him. Shouldn't we not just come to him with confidence instead and simply pray.
Jesus responds - All things are possible to him who believes. Paul I think would echo these words in his letter to the Philippians when he says, "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." Notice Jesus' words. He doesn't say that all things will happen, but says that all things are possible. There is a possibility that they will happen, but it starts with believing. Faith is the calling card here. People don't come to Jesus simply because they believe he offers a 'Get out of Hell free' card. Instead, we are to have faith, believe in Him. The question is not what God can do but whether we believe.
2 Chronicles 20:20 - They rose early in the morning and went out to the wilderness of Tekoa; and when they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Listen to me, O Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, put your trust in the Lord your God and you will be established. Put your trust in His prophets and succeed.”
Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, “I do believe; help my unbelief.” Is this not the struggle we all face. The back and forth of believing and not believing. I believe, but Lord help my unbelief. Keep me far from unbelief.
Summary - The father explains to Jesus that his son has been experiencing these convulsions for as long as he can remember. The disciples have admitted they can't do anything to fix the problem. The man then wonders if Jesus can. Jesus speaks plainly that it isn't a question of can he do it, but will the man believe that he can do it. All things are possible to him who believes.
Promise: Even the weakest trust in Christ is enough, for what is necessary to receive Him and all His benefits is true faith, not perfect faith.
Prayer: Lord, when I come to you, I pray that I would have faith, that I would believe. I pray that I would with confidence expect you to work. Like with my son Derek. Jesus save him. I believe and know you can so this is what I pray. Give wisdom to my son Tyson. Give him the desire to be his best, at everything. Help Megan to be understanding to everyone, especially Brandon. And pave the way for my wife, Pamela. May she be confident in You. Be near to her. Bring peace to her life. Bring perseverance to mine.
20 They brought the boy to Him. When he saw Him, immediately the spirit threw him into a convulsion, and falling to the ground, he began rolling around and foaming at the mouth. 21 And He asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 It has often thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us!” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If You can?’ All things are possible to him who believes.” 24 Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, “I do believe; help my unbelief.”
Message: Help for Unbelief
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 - After coming down the mountain, from the transfiguration, Jesus encounters his other disciples with scribes and chatter is happening regarding a man with his son who is possessed with a spirit that makes him mute. The disciples saw this happening. Jesus remarks that he has before him still an unbelieving generation, for their is no sign that any healing of this boy has occurred.
As I am reading this passage, I am thinking of that Chicago Med episode I watched the other night. The mother concluded that the weird noises emitting from her daughter had to be the result of a demon in her. But, as the story went on, the doctors discovered repressed feelings from the girl having been molested by her father at a young age. No matter the outcome, the idea that the girl was possessed was met by the hospital staff as "how absurd." It was almost like explaining this situation as a spiritual thing rather than psychological or physical was absurd.
I read this passage and wonder if the demon possessions that Jesus is healing is actually the explanation of the day as to what is occurring in people's lives. Medicine and science were not well established at the time. And the very idea that something was occurring in a person made them to conclude that there must be an outside force infiltrating them. My good friend Bobby just had his 3rd cancer surgery to remove lymph nodes in his neck. He's had 110 nodes removed now and has been in surgery 17 hours total, told me this morning that, although microscopic, the cancer remains in him. As a follower of Christ, one of his thoughts of this is the result of sin in his life. And on the surface, it makes no sense for something like to happen. He is in fantastic physical condition. He is healthy. And yet this happens.
Thus, how do we explain things. We can't help but try to determine a reason why things happen in our lives. These days, we find comfort in medicine to cure what ails us in our lives. Yet, in these Bible times, medicine was somewhat not even an option for most. Natural remedies, herbs, and then hopefully healing were the sought after ways. Yet, even today, God uses medicine and doctors to heal people. It is generally all about who we end up praising when these things happen.
This is what I am thinking as I approach this passage. They brought the boy to Him. When he saw Him, immediately the spirit threw him into a convulsion, and falling to the ground, he began rolling around and foaming at the mouth. It seems clear that there is a spirit of sickness or possession, for when he saw Him (Jesus), the spirit reacted. Isn't that interesting, there was the thought that the spirit was in opposition to Jesus, almost like Jesus had authority and the spirit was resisting this authority.
Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood."
So this has been a life long problem for this child. But the man responds to Jesus not exactly exhibiting real faith. if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us! Jesus is bothered by these words, "If you can." He then responds with the same words, ‘If You can?’ It is interesting, Jesus expects a transfer of understanding to be happening in these people to the point that he is tired that the people aren't realizing faster what he can do, who he is. I wonder if he tires of this in our life. Do we have the same confidence that He will heal what ails us? I wonder if we take on the same meaning when we come to him and say, "If it be your will." Granted, it could be said we are surrendering to his will, but aren't we also questioning him. Shouldn't we not just come to him with confidence instead and simply pray.
Jesus responds - All things are possible to him who believes. Paul I think would echo these words in his letter to the Philippians when he says, "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." Notice Jesus' words. He doesn't say that all things will happen, but says that all things are possible. There is a possibility that they will happen, but it starts with believing. Faith is the calling card here. People don't come to Jesus simply because they believe he offers a 'Get out of Hell free' card. Instead, we are to have faith, believe in Him. The question is not what God can do but whether we believe.
2 Chronicles 20:20 - They rose early in the morning and went out to the wilderness of Tekoa; and when they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Listen to me, O Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, put your trust in the Lord your God and you will be established. Put your trust in His prophets and succeed.”
Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, “I do believe; help my unbelief.” Is this not the struggle we all face. The back and forth of believing and not believing. I believe, but Lord help my unbelief. Keep me far from unbelief.
Summary - The father explains to Jesus that his son has been experiencing these convulsions for as long as he can remember. The disciples have admitted they can't do anything to fix the problem. The man then wonders if Jesus can. Jesus speaks plainly that it isn't a question of can he do it, but will the man believe that he can do it. All things are possible to him who believes.
Promise: Even the weakest trust in Christ is enough, for what is necessary to receive Him and all His benefits is true faith, not perfect faith.
Prayer: Lord, when I come to you, I pray that I would have faith, that I would believe. I pray that I would with confidence expect you to work. Like with my son Derek. Jesus save him. I believe and know you can so this is what I pray. Give wisdom to my son Tyson. Give him the desire to be his best, at everything. Help Megan to be understanding to everyone, especially Brandon. And pave the way for my wife, Pamela. May she be confident in You. Be near to her. Bring peace to her life. Bring perseverance to mine.
Sunday, July 8, 2018
Mark 9:14-19 - Jesus Confronts a Faithless Generation
Mark 9:14-19
14 When they came back to the disciples, they saw a large crowd around them, and some scribes arguing with them. 15 Immediately, when the entire crowd saw Him, they were amazed and began running up to greet Him. 16 And He asked them, “What are you discussing with them?” 17 And one of the crowd answered Him, “Teacher, I brought You my son, possessed with a spirit which makes him mute; 18 and whenever it seizes him, it slams him to the ground and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth and stiffens out. I told Your disciples to cast it out, and they could not do it.” 19 And He *answered them and *said, “O unbelieving generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him to Me!”
Message: Jesus Confronts a Faithless Generation
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 - So far this chapter has focused on the transfiguration of Jesus, an event that I am not real sure right now of its purpose. Prior to it Mark records that Peter had questioned Jesus and his teaching that he must be killed and after 3 days rise again. In the transfiguration, Elijah and Moses appear. The disciples mention that there is a prophecy that says that Elijah must come before the Christ. The Spirit and Power of Elijah has come in the form of John the Baptist.
Jesus has now returned from the mountain. As he returns they saw a large crowd around them. The disciples were there. Upon seeing Jesus, they were amazed and began running up to greet Him. Scribes are arguing with people in the crowd and possible the disciples. Jesus asks, What are you discussing with them? And one of the crowd answered Him, “Teacher, I brought You my son, possessed with a spirit which makes him mute; and whenever it seizes him, it slams him to the ground and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth and stiffens out. I told Your disciples to cast it out, and they could not do it.”
Upon hearing this Jesus remark O unbelieving generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him to Me! I believe Jesus wanted people to see that that they also had the power of God in them. It could be said that Jesus here is judging the unbelief of those that are following him.
There is a significant contrast here - the glorification of Jesus as seen in His transfiguration and now descending to the land and seeing the disbelief of man. It makes me wonder what is missing here with these people, it is not that Jesus expected them to be divine, that these people would have the same strength that he has, but they should have the ability to be of the same kind.
Summary - Coming down from the mountain and experience the highest of high's, Jesus now experiences a low - the disbelief of people following Him. It is not clear what he expected, but it was obviously something rather than nothing.
Promise: Jesus and his harsh words are aimed at a desire to awaken us to our sin, unbelief in this instance. Our confidence is always to be in Him.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be a person that follows you and does what you say but often I am just like the crowd and instead of doing what you say, I do the reverse. I want to be part of the believers.
14 When they came back to the disciples, they saw a large crowd around them, and some scribes arguing with them. 15 Immediately, when the entire crowd saw Him, they were amazed and began running up to greet Him. 16 And He asked them, “What are you discussing with them?” 17 And one of the crowd answered Him, “Teacher, I brought You my son, possessed with a spirit which makes him mute; 18 and whenever it seizes him, it slams him to the ground and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth and stiffens out. I told Your disciples to cast it out, and they could not do it.” 19 And He *answered them and *said, “O unbelieving generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him to Me!”
Message: Jesus Confronts a Faithless Generation
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 - So far this chapter has focused on the transfiguration of Jesus, an event that I am not real sure right now of its purpose. Prior to it Mark records that Peter had questioned Jesus and his teaching that he must be killed and after 3 days rise again. In the transfiguration, Elijah and Moses appear. The disciples mention that there is a prophecy that says that Elijah must come before the Christ. The Spirit and Power of Elijah has come in the form of John the Baptist.
Jesus has now returned from the mountain. As he returns they saw a large crowd around them. The disciples were there. Upon seeing Jesus, they were amazed and began running up to greet Him. Scribes are arguing with people in the crowd and possible the disciples. Jesus asks, What are you discussing with them? And one of the crowd answered Him, “Teacher, I brought You my son, possessed with a spirit which makes him mute; and whenever it seizes him, it slams him to the ground and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth and stiffens out. I told Your disciples to cast it out, and they could not do it.”
Upon hearing this Jesus remark O unbelieving generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring him to Me! I believe Jesus wanted people to see that that they also had the power of God in them. It could be said that Jesus here is judging the unbelief of those that are following him.
There is a significant contrast here - the glorification of Jesus as seen in His transfiguration and now descending to the land and seeing the disbelief of man. It makes me wonder what is missing here with these people, it is not that Jesus expected them to be divine, that these people would have the same strength that he has, but they should have the ability to be of the same kind.
Summary - Coming down from the mountain and experience the highest of high's, Jesus now experiences a low - the disbelief of people following Him. It is not clear what he expected, but it was obviously something rather than nothing.
Promise: Jesus and his harsh words are aimed at a desire to awaken us to our sin, unbelief in this instance. Our confidence is always to be in Him.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be a person that follows you and does what you say but often I am just like the crowd and instead of doing what you say, I do the reverse. I want to be part of the believers.
Saturday, July 7, 2018
Mark 9:9-13 - The Coming of Elijah
Mark 9:9-13
9 As they were coming down from the mountain, He gave them orders not to relate to anyone what they had seen, until the Son of Man rose from the dead. 10 They seized upon that statement, discussing with one another what rising from the dead meant. 11 They asked Him, saying, “Why is it that the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 12 And He said to them, “Elijah does first come and restore all things. And yet how is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I say to you that Elijah has indeed come, and they did to him whatever they wished, just as it is written of him.”
Message: The Coming of Elijah
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 goes to the mountaintop and brings Peter, James, and John. He was transfigured. They see Moses (Law) and Elijah (Prophets) and Jesus shining as pure white. Something is happening, but they are not sure. Is this the fulfillment now of the final salvation, deliverance, complete exodus from exile? On that note, Peter builds a tabernacle - the place where God speaks. But, still he is unsure and terrified. God steps in and declares to them, what Jesus has already been saying to them, This is My beloved Son, listen to Him.
This is the scene: the transfiguration is over and now Peter, James and John wonder: what next? As they were coming down from the mountain, He gave them orders not to relate to anyone what they had seen, until the Son of Man rose from the dead. So while the incident was significant it should not be told to anyone. This can only mean that what just occurred is something Jesus knew would create a lot of talk and conversation and perhaps consternation. That God had spoken to them "This is my beloved Son." Was it that for a moment the humanity of Jesus was set aside and they saw Jesus in all of his heavenly glory? Perhaps because what had just happened was not clear. God had even said, "Just listen to Jesus." Jesus had a purpose. Peter and the disciples did not understand that purpose for when Jesus said he would do something, the disciples often thought he should do something else. This had to have been hard, to have just had an incredible experience and for the other disciples to come up to them after this mountaintop experience and for them to just say, "Later, I'll tell you later."
I mean, what happened? (1) Jesus is transfigured, (2) Elijah and Moses were present, (3) God the Father was there, (4) the Son of Man would rise again. See, what is happening? Jesus mentions again now that he would obviously die and then rise again. This is what had already disturbed them previously in chapter 8:31 when he said the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. It is as if it will all make sense after the resurrection, when I appear again, but right now it won't. The idea here was simple: trust me; listen to me.
While they didn't talk to others They seized upon that statement, discussing with one another what rising from the dead meant. But this did make them wonder.
As they wonder, they remember from the scriptures something - "Why is it that the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” The last 2 verses of the Old Testament in Malachi 4:5-6 records Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. He will restore the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and smite the land with a curse. This great and terrible day of the Lord seems to refer to the Second Coming of the Christ when he establishes his kingdom. But, Jesus is also here so is it correct to say that Elijah should have already come.
And He said to them, “Elijah does first come and restore all things. And yet how is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt? The Son of Man suffering was a fulfillment of Isaiah 53. No prophecy was ever more strikingly fulfilled.
But I say to you that Elijah has indeed come, and they did to him whatever they wished, just as it is written of him. John was not Elijah reincarnated. Hebrews 9:27 states and inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this judgment. John himself denied that he was Elijah in John 1:21 - They asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” And he *said, “I am not.” John comes in the spirit and power of Elijah, preceding the first coming of Jesus. Elijah is to precede the second coming of Jesus.
Summary - This is a difficult passage. It is mostly about revealed prophecy, of John coming in the spirit of Elijah and as Jesus suffering.
Promise: Suffering is a part of the way to glory.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the cross. Thank you for the eternal message of You seeking and saving the Lost, for saving me.
9 As they were coming down from the mountain, He gave them orders not to relate to anyone what they had seen, until the Son of Man rose from the dead. 10 They seized upon that statement, discussing with one another what rising from the dead meant. 11 They asked Him, saying, “Why is it that the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 12 And He said to them, “Elijah does first come and restore all things. And yet how is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I say to you that Elijah has indeed come, and they did to him whatever they wished, just as it is written of him.”
Message: The Coming of Elijah
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 goes to the mountaintop and brings Peter, James, and John. He was transfigured. They see Moses (Law) and Elijah (Prophets) and Jesus shining as pure white. Something is happening, but they are not sure. Is this the fulfillment now of the final salvation, deliverance, complete exodus from exile? On that note, Peter builds a tabernacle - the place where God speaks. But, still he is unsure and terrified. God steps in and declares to them, what Jesus has already been saying to them, This is My beloved Son, listen to Him.
This is the scene: the transfiguration is over and now Peter, James and John wonder: what next? As they were coming down from the mountain, He gave them orders not to relate to anyone what they had seen, until the Son of Man rose from the dead. So while the incident was significant it should not be told to anyone. This can only mean that what just occurred is something Jesus knew would create a lot of talk and conversation and perhaps consternation. That God had spoken to them "This is my beloved Son." Was it that for a moment the humanity of Jesus was set aside and they saw Jesus in all of his heavenly glory? Perhaps because what had just happened was not clear. God had even said, "Just listen to Jesus." Jesus had a purpose. Peter and the disciples did not understand that purpose for when Jesus said he would do something, the disciples often thought he should do something else. This had to have been hard, to have just had an incredible experience and for the other disciples to come up to them after this mountaintop experience and for them to just say, "Later, I'll tell you later."
I mean, what happened? (1) Jesus is transfigured, (2) Elijah and Moses were present, (3) God the Father was there, (4) the Son of Man would rise again. See, what is happening? Jesus mentions again now that he would obviously die and then rise again. This is what had already disturbed them previously in chapter 8:31 when he said the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. It is as if it will all make sense after the resurrection, when I appear again, but right now it won't. The idea here was simple: trust me; listen to me.
While they didn't talk to others They seized upon that statement, discussing with one another what rising from the dead meant. But this did make them wonder.
As they wonder, they remember from the scriptures something - "Why is it that the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” The last 2 verses of the Old Testament in Malachi 4:5-6 records Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. He will restore the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and smite the land with a curse. This great and terrible day of the Lord seems to refer to the Second Coming of the Christ when he establishes his kingdom. But, Jesus is also here so is it correct to say that Elijah should have already come.
And He said to them, “Elijah does first come and restore all things. And yet how is it written of the Son of Man that He will suffer many things and be treated with contempt? The Son of Man suffering was a fulfillment of Isaiah 53. No prophecy was ever more strikingly fulfilled.
But I say to you that Elijah has indeed come, and they did to him whatever they wished, just as it is written of him. John was not Elijah reincarnated. Hebrews 9:27 states and inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this judgment. John himself denied that he was Elijah in John 1:21 - They asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” And he *said, “I am not.” John comes in the spirit and power of Elijah, preceding the first coming of Jesus. Elijah is to precede the second coming of Jesus.
Summary - This is a difficult passage. It is mostly about revealed prophecy, of John coming in the spirit of Elijah and as Jesus suffering.
Promise: Suffering is a part of the way to glory.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the cross. Thank you for the eternal message of You seeking and saving the Lost, for saving me.
Sunday, July 1, 2018
Mark 9:5-8 - Peter's Terror and God's Response
Mark 9:5-8
5 Peter *said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to answer; for they became terrified. 7 Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” 8 All at once they looked around and saw no one with them anymore, except Jesus alone.
Message: Peter's Terror and God's Response
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 - As a reminder, this book is from Peter's information, provided to Mark to record. Lately, much of the encounters have been with Peter at the forefront. Jesus has spoken of his purpose suffering many things, be rejected, killed, and rise again and then Peter rebukes him on this; Jesus then says to his disciples what it means to be a true follower of Him. And now he is transfigured before 3 of the disciples and confirms that his nature is different from Moses and Elijah and his mission is different as he is transfigured into the radiant whiteness that was ascribed to God the Father previously at appearances to men.
I saw this outline. It shows a turning point in the book at Mark 8:27-30. Prior, it was mostly about Jesus revealing himself by what he does and I think that is a very good summary of what I have reading and studying. Going forward, Jesus presses the claim that he is the Christ. I agree with this, as the messages from Jesus are ramping up.
As I read verse 3 and Peter's response, after seeing the transfiguration and Moses and Elijah being present with Jesus, he states let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. At my first reading, as a Gentile, I don't understand this. So, here is my attempt to understand this.
Moses and Elijah are figuratively seen as the Law and the Prophets. Their appearance then denotes this and is showing the bridge Jesus is to the Law and the Prophets. For the Jewish person or the Hebrew, the Law and the Prophets is what was known. And in some ways Jesus' ministry, then, is sort of an unknown or a mystery revealed; I wonder if the disciples are following someone they are still trying to figure out. Jesus remarked that he came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17). Jesus will also say later in this chapter that Elijah does first come to restore all things. This is said to refer to the final day of salvation. God even comes forward later to say basically, "just listen to My son."
Salvation is an interesting term. As a NT believer, salvation takes on a spiritual connotation. Jesus has just used this word in Mark 8:35 as he states for whoever wishes to save his life will lose it. Salvation occurs when we give up the life that we know and instead choose a life of denial and taking up the cross to follow Jesus. It is believing that Jesus can make us right with God. Thus, following Jesus results in salvation. The term salvation, on one hand, takes on the meaning of Jesus saving us, but the word is also used to describe the end of life. Salvation is not only momentary but life long as Jesus records these words in Mark 13:13 - and you will be hated by all on account of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved. Life is a journey, as I often say, not a sprint. But, salvation is not on our own accord as Peter remarks in Acts 15:11 we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus and yet even Jesus states in Luke 19:10 that the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost. Thus, in the New Testament salvation is an event or a moment in time but it is also a lifetime. It begins and it continues. It is through the Lord Jesus. Jesus saves.
Yet, for Peter, at this moment of the transfiguration this salvation idea was still being defined before him. They had heard the message of repent and believe (Mark 1:15), yet they were still in a discovery mode of understanding who Jesus is. They obviously knew he was someone significant for otherwise they would not have responded to Jesus and his call to Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men (Mark 1:17). They knew he had done some incredible works and said some incredible things, but they were still putting it together. So, at this moment, seeing Jesus and now seeing Moses and Elijah, the law and the prophets, and responding Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah, Peter relies on his past understanding of things. These tabernacles therefore took on some significance in their minds.
Malachi 4:4-6 are the last words of the Old Testament recorded by the Lord - Remember the law of Moses My servant, statutes and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel. Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. And he will restore the hearts of the father to children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the land with a curse. Elijah, as Jesus recorded will restore all things.
Salvation is an Old Testament word as well with a slightly different meaning. In the NT it was clearly a spiritual transformation. For the Jew, it represented a future exodus. With God as the active agent, salvation is victory or rescue from danger, defeat or distress. What is clear here is God is the source of salvation. God brings physical salvation to people, like Exodus 14:30 - Thus the Lord saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians. Salvation was mostly a word to note a momentary physical happening. Israel obviously experienced a back and forth condition of being saved and being held captive. And yet they looked forward to a day of always being saved physically. But, again it is a physical salvation of not being captive or forced against one will which can be different from this NT idea of a spiritual change or conversion. Despite God saving Israel multiple times, the Israelite still often sought God on their own terms worshiping and serving idols - thus, going after what they could see and in doing this ignored God's commands. God wanted his people to know him. So, although salvation was often a change in physical condition, God still spoke of restoring Israel. As in Hosea 2:19-20 - And I will betroth You to Me forever; yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and in justice, in loving kindness and in compassion and I will betroth you in Me in faithfulness, then you will know the Lord.
Thus, the Old Testament yes speaks of physical salvation but also eternally knowing the true God. When Peter spoke of building tabernacles he most have thought that they needed a place to worship God. Tabernacles or tents were constructed and torn down and taken from one place to another. Exodus 25:8 says, And let them construct a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell among them. And in 25:22 I will meet with you...I will speak to you. Thus, Peter, seemed to desire to build this structure, for he knew that God was present, but he didn't understand it well. For he did not know what to answer; for they became terrified. Peter was trying. He had goofed before, rejecting Jesus after he had told him his purpose in going to the cross. Peter was always trying to figure out how he was supposed to respond to these things happening to him and the disciples.
At this moment, it happens, God speaks directly to Peter. Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” All at once they looked around and saw no one with them anymore, except Jesus alone. It was clear. God was stating that Jesus was to be heard. Moses and Elijah were gone. Jesus was there. Maclaren writes:
Promise: We need to listen. We do not need a lightning bolt or even a voice from the Lord. We are able to simply listen. Jesus has proven to us that we can listen.
Prayer: Lord, I need to listen to you and never question you. I can take you at your word. You have shown me through the years that your commands are true and that I can trust You. Help me to believe in this. Thank you for this lesson this morning and teaching me through Your Word. Give me insight into Your Word and what I need to understand from it.
5 Peter *said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to answer; for they became terrified. 7 Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” 8 All at once they looked around and saw no one with them anymore, except Jesus alone.
Message: Peter's Terror and God's Response
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 - As a reminder, this book is from Peter's information, provided to Mark to record. Lately, much of the encounters have been with Peter at the forefront. Jesus has spoken of his purpose suffering many things, be rejected, killed, and rise again and then Peter rebukes him on this; Jesus then says to his disciples what it means to be a true follower of Him. And now he is transfigured before 3 of the disciples and confirms that his nature is different from Moses and Elijah and his mission is different as he is transfigured into the radiant whiteness that was ascribed to God the Father previously at appearances to men.
I saw this outline. It shows a turning point in the book at Mark 8:27-30. Prior, it was mostly about Jesus revealing himself by what he does and I think that is a very good summary of what I have reading and studying. Going forward, Jesus presses the claim that he is the Christ. I agree with this, as the messages from Jesus are ramping up.
As I read verse 3 and Peter's response, after seeing the transfiguration and Moses and Elijah being present with Jesus, he states let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. At my first reading, as a Gentile, I don't understand this. So, here is my attempt to understand this.
Moses and Elijah are figuratively seen as the Law and the Prophets. Their appearance then denotes this and is showing the bridge Jesus is to the Law and the Prophets. For the Jewish person or the Hebrew, the Law and the Prophets is what was known. And in some ways Jesus' ministry, then, is sort of an unknown or a mystery revealed; I wonder if the disciples are following someone they are still trying to figure out. Jesus remarked that he came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17). Jesus will also say later in this chapter that Elijah does first come to restore all things. This is said to refer to the final day of salvation. God even comes forward later to say basically, "just listen to My son."
Salvation is an interesting term. As a NT believer, salvation takes on a spiritual connotation. Jesus has just used this word in Mark 8:35 as he states for whoever wishes to save his life will lose it. Salvation occurs when we give up the life that we know and instead choose a life of denial and taking up the cross to follow Jesus. It is believing that Jesus can make us right with God. Thus, following Jesus results in salvation. The term salvation, on one hand, takes on the meaning of Jesus saving us, but the word is also used to describe the end of life. Salvation is not only momentary but life long as Jesus records these words in Mark 13:13 - and you will be hated by all on account of My name, but the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved. Life is a journey, as I often say, not a sprint. But, salvation is not on our own accord as Peter remarks in Acts 15:11 we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus and yet even Jesus states in Luke 19:10 that the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost. Thus, in the New Testament salvation is an event or a moment in time but it is also a lifetime. It begins and it continues. It is through the Lord Jesus. Jesus saves.
Yet, for Peter, at this moment of the transfiguration this salvation idea was still being defined before him. They had heard the message of repent and believe (Mark 1:15), yet they were still in a discovery mode of understanding who Jesus is. They obviously knew he was someone significant for otherwise they would not have responded to Jesus and his call to Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men (Mark 1:17). They knew he had done some incredible works and said some incredible things, but they were still putting it together. So, at this moment, seeing Jesus and now seeing Moses and Elijah, the law and the prophets, and responding Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles, one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah, Peter relies on his past understanding of things. These tabernacles therefore took on some significance in their minds.
Malachi 4:4-6 are the last words of the Old Testament recorded by the Lord - Remember the law of Moses My servant, statutes and ordinances which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel. Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. And he will restore the hearts of the father to children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the land with a curse. Elijah, as Jesus recorded will restore all things.
Salvation is an Old Testament word as well with a slightly different meaning. In the NT it was clearly a spiritual transformation. For the Jew, it represented a future exodus. With God as the active agent, salvation is victory or rescue from danger, defeat or distress. What is clear here is God is the source of salvation. God brings physical salvation to people, like Exodus 14:30 - Thus the Lord saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians. Salvation was mostly a word to note a momentary physical happening. Israel obviously experienced a back and forth condition of being saved and being held captive. And yet they looked forward to a day of always being saved physically. But, again it is a physical salvation of not being captive or forced against one will which can be different from this NT idea of a spiritual change or conversion. Despite God saving Israel multiple times, the Israelite still often sought God on their own terms worshiping and serving idols - thus, going after what they could see and in doing this ignored God's commands. God wanted his people to know him. So, although salvation was often a change in physical condition, God still spoke of restoring Israel. As in Hosea 2:19-20 - And I will betroth You to Me forever; yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and in justice, in loving kindness and in compassion and I will betroth you in Me in faithfulness, then you will know the Lord.
Thus, the Old Testament yes speaks of physical salvation but also eternally knowing the true God. When Peter spoke of building tabernacles he most have thought that they needed a place to worship God. Tabernacles or tents were constructed and torn down and taken from one place to another. Exodus 25:8 says, And let them construct a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell among them. And in 25:22 I will meet with you...I will speak to you. Thus, Peter, seemed to desire to build this structure, for he knew that God was present, but he didn't understand it well. For he did not know what to answer; for they became terrified. Peter was trying. He had goofed before, rejecting Jesus after he had told him his purpose in going to the cross. Peter was always trying to figure out how he was supposed to respond to these things happening to him and the disciples.
At this moment, it happens, God speaks directly to Peter. Then a cloud formed, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” All at once they looked around and saw no one with them anymore, except Jesus alone. It was clear. God was stating that Jesus was to be heard. Moses and Elijah were gone. Jesus was there. Maclaren writes:
‘Hear Him.’ God’s voice bids you listen to Christ’s voice-God’s voice bids you listen to Christ’s voice as His voice. Listen to Him when He speaks to you about God-do not trust your own fancy, do not trust your own fear, do not trust the dictates of your conscience, do not consult man, do not listen to others, do not speculate about the mysteries of the earth and the heavens, but go to Him, and listen to the only begotten Son in the bosom of the Father.Summary - Jesus goes to the mountaintop and brings Peter, James, and John. He was transfigured. They see Moses (Law) and Elijah (Prophets) and Jesus shining as pure white. Something is happening, but they are not sure. Is this the fulfillment now of the final salvation, deliverance, complete exodus from exile? On that note, Peter builds a tabernacle - the place where God speaks. But, still he is unsure and terrified. God steps in and declares to them, what Jesus has already been saying to them, This is My beloved Son, listen to Him.
Promise: We need to listen. We do not need a lightning bolt or even a voice from the Lord. We are able to simply listen. Jesus has proven to us that we can listen.
Prayer: Lord, I need to listen to you and never question you. I can take you at your word. You have shown me through the years that your commands are true and that I can trust You. Help me to believe in this. Thank you for this lesson this morning and teaching me through Your Word. Give me insight into Your Word and what I need to understand from it.
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