John 9:1-7 - The Man Born Blind

John 9:1-7

1 And as He passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2 And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he should be born blind? 3 Jesus answered, "It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents, but it was in order that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 We must work the works of Him who sent Me, as long as it is day; night is coming, when no man can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." 6 When He had said this, He spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and applied the clay to his eyes. 7 and said to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which is translated Sent). And so he went away and washed, and came back seeing.  

Message: The Man Born Blind

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: From the previous verse at the end of Chapter 8, Jesus has left the temple where he had spoken of his history - that He was before Abraham, and “I am” - he is equal with God. And so now here in verse 1 of chapter 9, Jesus is probably near a spot by the Temple, a place where beggars asked for alms. This beggar probably voiced to Jesus and to all that passed by his condition -  blind since birth. He probably announced this to gain more pity from those passing by and thereby bringing about greater sorrow and greater alms. 

In our culture, it seems we are living in a time when begging is very apropos and commonplace. It is difficult to drive in the city now and not see beggars at street corners or traffic lights, who are holding signs, pleading to those passing by for money. And their signs are being written in numerous ways in order to help people have this desire to give to them, to feel sorrow, to recognize the need. 

In this passage, the disciples see the disability of the man and automatically believe it is there not by accident. In the Bible, sicknesses and ailments like this can be the result of sin. Man is not in a perfect state and sickness and disease are signs of that imperfection. But a persons condition may not be a result of their own sin. It may, but it also may be the general result of all sin to mankind. The disciples asset that the beggars blindness is the result of some form of disobedience, either by the man himself while in the womb or even of the belief that this man had a past life and was now bearing the punishment of past indiscretions - either by himself or his parents. 

Jesus, however, corrects them. Jesus responds that this man's problem is not a problem at all and instead it is actually a good thing to result in God's glory. Genesis 50:20 echoes the promise, "and as for you, ye meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive." This man, and we don't know his age, has been born blind in order to glorify God. This man's blindness will be cured (verse 6) and that cure will be an act of God showing us his glory and so Jesus is saying that he has what we term a handicap for the purpose of glorifying God. God did not make us only temporary people but eternal people and so we need to remember to look beyond circumstances to what God may be doing in a person’s entire life. 

In verse 4, Jesus mentions the importance of working, not simply laboring as in a job, but doing the work of the Father. This work that is done will be temporary (day) because at some point the work will no longer be needed (because of night). It is possible that the events of the Feast of Booths, which Jesus went to Jerusalem and was involved in (John 7:37 until this the time of John 10:21) constituted the same day and so maybe the day/night correlated with this verse. He has spoken a lot but He seems to still be in this same area of Jerusalem. But Jesus, in whatever work He is speaking about, includes the disciples in that work. He says, "We." While Jesus is the central focus of the gospel in calling people to an abundant life and living life to the fullest, the disciples are involved. We are also involved.

Either way, I suppose the encouragement here is to work hard while we can work. I think of this as I am getting older as the older I get the harder it will be to keep working. My body just won't keep up. Jesus then in verse 5 remarks, "While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." Jesus has spoke of the day in the previous verse, the day being the time to the work, but the sun of the day is not what will illuminate us, He will illuminate us. He is the Light. Maybe this is more of a plead to the disciples that He is here now, in the world, they are to work hard to spread His message as He is in the world and He is a light to this world. 

And then Jesus spits on the ground, made clay, and wiped it on the man's eyes. And the man then saw. Jesus heals, not sure why he did it this way, but Jesus can heal any way he wants. 

Summary: Jesus is the light and in our world today and reveals that a man born blind is that way to bring glory to God. Jesus later heals this man.

Promise: Jesus reminds us that we do not need to look at others to try to determine why they are in the condition they are in, but rather we are to minister to them, and help them in their suffering. 

Prayer: God, you brought Jesus into the world to be our light, both then, now and forever. Thank you for helping me be more understanding of those that are suffering. Give me the strength to do this. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 5:1-9a - Healing at Bethesda

John 5:1-9a

After these things there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.

Now there is in Jerusalem by the sheep gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew Bethesda, having five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered, [waiting for the moving of the waters; for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted.] A man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, “Do you wish to get well?” The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Get up, pick up your pallet and walk.” Immediately the man became well, and picked up his pallet and began to walk.

Message: Healing at Bethesda

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Thus far, what I have seen in this study of John is John starting off by describing many different names for Jesus that conveyed his purpose in coming. And that purpose is wrapped up in the theme of giving eternal life to all who believe which makes up Chapters 3 and 4. Jesus is about getting his name and message out. He is to preach the good news of the gospel, namely that God loves and we are to believe that Jesus is the light and allow our sin to be exposed. And then Jesus also heals. As people come to him and as he is around people, there are those that are hurting and come to him to ask to be healed. Perhaps this is a way to get him message out faster. By people seeing a healing, word travels. And yet it is hoped that what gets communicated is his overarching message. 

Jesus comes to the pool, to see a man. There was a pool there that many thought when the angel visited the pool and stirred the water, many would be healed, but one many could not make it into the pool. The idea was that the first one into the pool would be healed. For this to happen, the man would need others to help him. And other people were too interested in getting the healing. It was 38 years that he had been in the condition of not being able to walk or move himself. 38 years. Interesting that this detail is called out. 

"When Jesus saw him..." To be seen is a major point in anyone's life. To be seen and recognized and mentioned is the greatest moment one can often experience. I will never forget my oldest son playing basketball in a youth faith or church league and shooting a basket and making a layup and immediately looking at me as he came down the court. He wanted to be seen and I saw him. That moment has always stood out to me in my life. 

Jesus asked the man if he wanted to get well and the man's response was affirmative, yes, but he expressed it in the form that no one will help me. 

Jesus helped him. Jesus healed him. The man felt if he could get to the water he would be healed. Jesus didn't simply take him to the water which is what He could have done, but by speaking a word to the man, he was healed. That simple. 

And yet, what we don't know is the man's faith nor that he really knew who Jesus was. And Jesus picks him out of the crowd. Many beyond the man wanted to be healed but Jesus chose the man. So Jesus didn't heal everyone. The purpose - to show His power. Not everyone will be healed. 

Summary: Jesus picks a man out from the crowd at the pools of Bethesda in Jerusalem and heals the man, allowing him to get up and walk. 

Promise: God sovereignly determines when and where to act.

Prayer: Lord, you heal. You heal who you choose. And we can also implore you to heal. Yet, you are sovereign and in control. I surrender to you and accept what you provide for me. Lord, comfort those that need healing. That are wanting this to occur. Help people to know You as Savior and Lord. Lord, keep healing as you are doing in people's lives. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 4:43-54 - Ministry in Galilee

John 4:43-54
And after the two days He went forth from there into Galilee. For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, having seen all the things that He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they themselves also went to the feast. 

Therefore He came again to Cana of Galilee where He had made the water wine. And there was a royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum. When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and was imploring Him to come down and heal his son; for he was at the point of death. So Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.” The royal official said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” Jesus said to him, “Go; your son lives.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and started off. As he was now going down, his slaves met him, saying that his son was living. So he inquired of them the hour when he began to get better. Then they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” So the father knew that it was at that hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son lives”; and he himself believed and his whole household. This is again a second sign that Jesus performed when He had come out of Judea into Galilee.

Message: Ministry in Galilee

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Two days? The event so far in John 4 has covered 2 days (v. 43), is that what John is saying? So Jesus is leaving the area of the Samaritans and is now headed south the Galilee. In Matthew, Mark, and Luke this initial time in Judea and Samaria is not mentioned. Jesus remarks in verse 44 that a prophet has no honor in his own country. Many rejected him in his own city. In Mark 6 it mentions Jesus in arriving in his hometown went to the synagogue and they were widespread offense towards him and in verse 4 of that chapter it states a similar message to this one in John. 

But I suppose what is odd here is that the rest of the passage mentions how the Galileans accepted Jesus. And several situations are mentioned:

• He did a lot of things in Jerusalem (John 1:19-28, 2:13-25)
• He made the water into wine (John 2:1-10)

An official, probably an adviser to Herod Antipas, comes to Jesus asking him to heal his son. The place was Cana of Galilee where he had made water into wine and verse 54 will mention it later as the 2nd since that Jesus performed. This man had obviously heard of Jesus' power, supernatural power and asks Jesus to heal his son, who was close to death in Capernaum (on the northwestern part of the Sea of Galilee). 

Jesus' initial response was a little disdain. Not sure if it was mentioned solely to the man but to others around. Chapter 2:23 recorded the results of Jesus' turning water into wine "many believed in His name, beholding His signs which He was doing." And yet, "Jesus, on His part, was not entrusting Himself to them." Their belief was not sincere belief in Jesus but rather belief in a sign, in a magic trick. And Nicodemus mentions this as well to Jesus in 3:2 and this is when Jesus communicates what is really need to be born again and that is a change must occur in a person on the inside - that each person must believe as recorded in John 3:15 - "that whoever believes may in Him have eternal life." 

And even after these words, the official implores Jesus further (v. 49). Jesus remarks, "Go your way; your son lives." Basically, go back to your home in Capernaum and you will see that your son has been healed. "The man believed." This man had real faith. His faith was not in seeing the sign because he would probably not see his son for some time. But when Jesus spoke the words, he believed. He did not need to see the results. He believed what Jesus said. God's word had taken root in him. And then in verse 51 we hear of the result of the sign. Others in the household would believe. 

Again, there is a belief in Jesus that is needed, beyond the sign, beyond what He can do. 

Summary: There are those that reject Jesus, but in Galilee a royal official asks Jesus to heal his dying son and believes Jesus' that He has healed his son ever prior to see the results. 

Promise: Many saw signs from Jesus but never really believed in Him. Our faith must be grounded in the promises of God. When we are convinced of His trustworthiness, our faith will persevere.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for guiding me and directing me. I have missed finishing these times with You in your word, just allowing myself to get overly busy and yet Lord, you are there and always there. Give me strength in my days and give me direction in helping these boys now that are staying with us, maybe even to help the word of God take root in them. Thank you for helping me understand Your words and knowing You. Thank you for this message of truth, of believing in You beyond what You do for us, beyond seeing what you have done. May that real faith be contagious. Help me to take a moment and speak your truth to others. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

Mark 16:17-18 - Apostolic Signs and Wonders

Mark 16:17-18
17 These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Message: Apostolic Signs and Wonders

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 has been crucified but now He lives. He died on Friday and rose on Sunday, appearing first to Mary Magdalene, then 2 disciples followed by the rest of the disciples (minus Thomas) and in the process He reproves the disciples. They were not trusting that He had appeared to others. They trusted only in themselves and He corrects them in this but then He also commissions them to Go and preach the Gospel. This gospel message is believing (in Him) followed by baptism. If one does not believe He will be condemned.

Lord, continue to help me unpack the truths of this message that You are giving to me as I read Your word. The message of the gospel is interwoven in this book and even today it has meaning to people's lives. Help me to know how to communicate that to others. Lord, I don't want to just have an internal understanding and book knowledge, but want to be able to pass this onto others. Not so we just all live successful lives, but saved lives. Thank you for saving my wife, my son, my daughter and her husband and continue to work in my youngest son's life to bring him (and his girlfriend) to salvation. Lord, they need You and need You to be their light.

Jesus is speaking here and he continues to deliver a message to His disciples. He last specifically spoke to them at the Passover and the breaking of bread and drinking of wine as His body, His blood. He has declared that His body has been broken and blood spilled for them. He became the Lamb of God before their eyes. He tells them to preach the gospel and then also tells them this means believing.

It has been clear that His message to His disciples has never simply been a message of gaining information but it has always been about being ministers of the Gospel. We are not placed on this earth simply to gain a different understanding from our peers, but to serve our peers and minister to them. Jesus will now say some radical things about people carrying on His message and doing things in His name. These signs will accompany those who have believed: in My name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” The radical look at things that He communicates - cast out demons, speak with new tongues, pick up serpents, drink deadly, lay hands on the sick -- sort of baffles us. On one hand we don't see some of these practices in our world today. Are we supposed to see them exactly as they are said by Jesus or is Jesus rather simply telling us that people will do radical things when they place their faith in Jesus and believe.

As I unpack these words from Jesus and try to figure out what He means, I recognize that in my life as a Christian I have been somewhat trained that these seemingly supernatural situations in the life of a believer do not occur today. They occurred with frequency during the time of the life of the apostles, from the death of Jesus and His commission to them in AD 33 to the time of the last apostles death around AD 100. But, since then they do not occur. Yet, many say they do occur and many ministries have capitalized on this and have a great following because of believing this ongoing ministry.

At first I see that Jesus does say there will be signs that accompany a believer. There are clear evidences therefore of a person that believes and follows Christ. He states clearly that not simply the disciples but believers will cast out demons, speak with new tongues, pick up serpents, lay hands on the sick and the sick will recover. The idea about drinking deadly poison and it not hurting them is an option rather than an prescribed thing. But, to me it also says that they naturally follow in the life of a believer. It is not a manufactured thing. Obviously, I think we must be careful in feeling like these exact things will follow in the life of a believer. My life has not exhibited these things, that I am aware of, but I also don't know the extent of my prayers in laying hands on the sick. Perhaps signs and wonders were needed more at this time of history.

So I'm not quick to necessarily write all of these things off, but I'm still, as a 51 year old man, and a follower of Christ since I was 1 month prior of my 15th birthday, trying to understand what this means to this day. Some clearly have these convictions so I pray for wisdom in not quickly judging them.

Summary - Jesus continues with His people to the disciples and after telling them to go and preach the gospel and that believing results in baptism and not believing, condemnation. He now passes onto them the idea that the believer in Christ is able to do things not previously done in that person's life. Believing in Christ changes us. Now people clearly did radical things then, but does this same practice follow today? I am not sure. The evidence would seem to be - no.

Promise: Signs accompany the believers life. Great things will follow the believer in life. The extent and variety of those signs is uncertain to me. But, I believe in Him.

Prayer: Lord, I pray for your understanding of these words. What is important to me is that a new life in Christ is simply that - a new life in Christ. Continue to train me in being Godly and serving others, for it is clear to me that ministering to others is what you are showing a new believer's life is about.

Mark 7:36-37 - The Crowd's Response to Jesus

Mark 7:36-37
36 And He gave them orders not to tell anyone; but the more He ordered them, the more widely they continued to proclaim it. 37 They were utterly astonished, saying, “He has done all things well; He makes even the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”

Message: The Crowd's Response to 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 speaks to all the people, going beyond just the scribes, and declares clearly that when speaking of being clean, the key is what comes out of a person, not what is taken in. Jesus goes to the region of Tyre and Sidon in an attempt to get away from ministry in Galilee for a time, perhaps in hopes of getting away from the crowds. But news of him is there as well and a woman appears to him requesting that an unclean spirit (demon) be removed from her daughter. Once again here, the emphasis seems to be on the disciples and teaching about the faith he is looking for in people. Jesus continues his journey, arriving in the region of Decapolis, and this time the healing of a deaf man is mentioned, fulfilling a prophecy from Isaiah 35:5. Jesus touches the man placing his fingers into his ear and touches his tongue giving him speech.

After healing the man, giving hearing and speech to this man He gave them orders not to tell anyone; Jesus had come to this region for a purpose and it seemed to teach his disciples and preach a message but he had to have know the impact healing would have had on people who were suffering. In this time, there was no medicine or hospitals or care that could occur when sickness or disease afflicted people. Upon being wounded, many simply died or suffered for long periods. So for Jesus to come and heal people must have produced a crazy amount of hysteria in this region. And yet He still had a mission: for people to repent and believe and believe in the Gospel of God.  And he knew his work would not just incite good people to want him but also incite religious people to be concerned about him and make a commotion as well. And sure enough the more He ordered them, the more widely they continued to proclaim it. 

Tabletalk devotional states: the common first-century Jewish expectation regarding the Messiah was for a conquering king who would overthrow Rome’s control of Palestine. If Jesus was widely acclaimed as the Messiah, it could inspire revolutionary zeal among the people and cause the Romans to arrest Jesus before it was time for His crucifixion.

Mark records that they were utterly astonished, saying "He has done all things well; He makes even the deaf to hear and the mute to speak." I think Jesus was really most concerned about teaching the disciples. The key to his ministry and its effectiveness seems to be the work of the disciples in proclaiming that message and he wants them to be properly equipped as we are to be equipped today. Often we get caught up in the power that God has over people, often healing people from something they previously thought was a part of their lives always, that they had been afflicted with, but Jesus clearly wants people to see the eternal result of the gospel and forgiveness of sin. It is almost as if he is saying, "Don't miss the real reason I have come."

Summary: Jesus is here to preach the gospel, to save sinners, to forgive. But he is also there for people to give them new life.

Promise: God is good all the time. To echo the words of Mark, I can apply them to all that Jesus is and he does do all things well.

Prayer: Lord, help me to not miss the message of who you are and what you are doing. I pray that we would embrace your words and see them as life changing. Thank you for the way you are working in people's lives. Keep us focused on the truth of your message.

Mark 7:31-35 - Healing a Deaf Man

Mark 7:31-35
31 Again He went out from the region of Tyre, and came through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, within the region of Decapolis. 32 They brought to Him one who was deaf and spoke with difficulty, and they implored Him to lay His hand on him. 33 Jesus took him aside from the crowd, by himself, and put His fingers into his ears, and after spitting, He touched his tongue with the saliva; 34 and looking up to heaven with a deep sigh, He said to him, “Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!” 35 And his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was removed, and he began speaking plainly.

Message: Healing a Deaf Man

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 speaks to all the people, going beyond just the scribes, and declares clearly that when speaking of being clean, the key is what comes out of a person, not what is taken in. Jesus goes to the region of Tyre and Sidon in an attempt to get away from ministry in Galilee for a time, perhaps in hopes of getting away from the crowds. But news of him is there as well and a woman appears to him requesting that an unclean spirit (demon) be removed from her daughter. Once again here, the emphasis seems to be on the disciples and teaching about the faith he is looking for in people.

As I continue to walk through these texts in the book of Mark, I wanting to see the way Jesus ministered to people, what was he looking for in followers, what is he asking of his disciples and what is he communicating about himself. And then as I discover those truths, I want them to help define my world today. It seems that throughout my life the idea of receiving Jesus into your heart and then making this commitment in your life to live a different life, one that is glorifying God has always been the key or the crux of what life in Jesus is all about. To the point, that unless we see people have made this kind of decision in their life then they aren't saved. Since early nineties, I see many churches getting away from this or at least the churches I've been a part of. The church I'm attending right now doesn't do this. There is no altar call nor is there even any mention of it or talking to a pastor. There is talk of getting baptized. There is talk of missions and working alongside other churches, but not a one time decision. Granted, each church there is a confession time and then the message of grace.

I live in New Mexico which has a very strong Roman Catholic background. I tend to watch the faiths of those that are Catholic. In many ways I often don't see a life that is that much different from anyone else. Yet, people say they believe in God. They might attend church but generally it seems to be more of a family thing, perhaps even wanting to please grandparents who are very much intertwined with the church. I'm not even sure they understand sin these days. In general, I see society being trained much more by the culture than the Word of God. But there is still this cord of faith for many and the idea that there is a God and we need him in our life. And I don't know what is going on inside of them, I only see their words, which also includes cursing, going to the same movies as everyone else, only going to church when they feel like it and just sort of walking through life with God present, but maybe not living and active. I don't know. That's what I see.

And so as I stare at these texts, speaking of Jesus, I wonder what is the message of Jesus. Mark started us off in the first chapter with what I see as a message and mission: The time is fulfilled; and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent and believe in the gospel of God. So, evidently there is a need to repent or turn from sin and then there is this quest to believe in the gospel of God or the good news. Yet, what is not yet apparent is what this Gospel is. Obviously, the texts are not comprehensive in that they don't have all of Jesus' conversations, only simple highlights. But, it remains of interest to me. Lately, it seems that Jesus is focus on teaching the disciples. He continues to heal people as they continue to come to them but through that process are lessons of faith and trusting in God's power.

The journey for Jesus continues. He heads toward the region of Decapolis, probably logging another 120 miles. That journey would take him probably a couple of weeks. So there is much that must have gone on which we do not know about. The healing of the deaf man is straight forward, although it is also prophesied in Isaiah 35:5 - And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind and unplug the ears of the deaf.  Jesus was very detailed in the way he healed this man. Others had been healed by a word, but Jesus gave this man feeling so he could feel his work possibly. Jesus took him aside from the crowd, by himself, and put His fingers into his ears, and after spitting, He touched his tongue with the saliva; and looking up to heaven with a deep sigh, He said to him, “Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!” And his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was removed, and he began speaking plainly.

Summary - Jesus continues his journey, arriving in the region of Decapolis, and this time the healing of a deaf man is mentioned, fulfilling a prophecy from Isaiah 35:5. Jesus touches the man placing his fingers into his ear and touches his tongue giving him speech. 


Promise: We can always trust Him even when He does things that we do not understand.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for showing me your life. Continue to help me to understand the way you work and the central message of the Gospel of God. Thank you for giving me life.

Mark 7:24-26 - Jesus Visits Tyre and Sidon

Mark 7:24-26
24 Jesus got up and went away from there to the region of Tyre. And when He had entered a house, He wanted no one to know of it; yet He could not escape notice. 25 But after hearing of Him, a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately came and fell at His feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, of the Syrophoenician race. And she kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter.

Message: Jesus Visits Tyre and Sidon

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 speaks to all the people, going beyond just the scribes, and declares clearly that when speaking of being clean, the key is what comes out of a person, not what is taken in. If the people want to know what defiles, it is what comes out of a person that matters most. Jesus, in a way, concludes the utter defilement of the heart by naming a list of these sins and repeats the idea that evil comes from within. While we stare at the outward, it is what is on the inside that matters most. 

Jesus got up and went away from there to the region of Tyre. I am reminded in Scripture that lines like this denote considerable time. Jesus getting up from where he was an then going to the region of Tyre. The distance between Capernaum (Galilee region) and Tyre was 35 miles; between Capernaum and Sidon is closer to 50 miles. Thus, to walk this distances would most likely take about a week, unless the terrain was different or the route was different. But we don't know for sure that he went from one place to another or from one region to another. The regions of Tyre and Sidon had a history of being wicked cities, paganism and opposition to Jews. Yet, these places ended up being more friendly to Jesus.

And when He had entered a house, He wanted no one to know of it. This is description is unique to the Gospel of Mark, as it is told in Matthew's account. It seems to be an indication that Jesus wanted to avoid publicity. yet He could not escape notice. Christ's fame had spread from Galilee to this region. Perhaps Jesus went to this region for the sole purpose of wanting to get away from the crowds and retreat to a more heathen territory where he could achieve rest or perhaps engage in community with his disciples. I am not sure who was with him or what his motivation was in coming to the region of Tyre and Sidon, but it seems clear now that it wasn't necessarily to minister to any one specifically. Mark mentions that he went to a house (not sure who) and wanted no one to know of it. Although he knew someone, he hoped to be there anonymous, but word of him spread.

Therefore, after hearing of Him, a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately came and fell at His feet. Now the woman was a Gentile, of the Syrophoenician race. And she kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. As I read these words and for a moment pretend that I don't know the words of Matthew, who provides a different type of detail from Mark's account, I look at what Mark emphasizes. She fell at His feet. Perhaps she had the feeling that only Jesus could do the healing. And yet, there are no words spoken and the description offered is her daughter had an unclean spirit and the woman kept asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. This woman's knowledge of Jesus was word of mouth. And from this account it is not apparent what she knew of Jesus other than that he could help her daughter.

For me, personally, as I read Mark's gospel account I sense that there is a sort of tension with Jesus in that people want to be healed and yet Jesus has first and foremost a mission of preaching repentance and belief. And it seems at times that even the healing exercises can at times lose track of this mission. After Jesus was baptized and declared his mission, he calls his first disciples, enters Capernaum and begins to speak things in the synagogue to show his authority and it hear we read then of him rebuking a spirit. But, the rebuke comes after his words that are spoken. The teaching and the command over unclean spirits made news of him spread (1:27-28). And then Jesus heals many more as people come to him but in verse 38 he wants to go us elsewhere, to other towns nearby, in order that I may preach, for that is what I came out for. A leper is cleansed, a paralytic is healed but each of those acts is still couched in speaking of his authority and forgiveness of sins. And so what Mark seems to be wanting to emphasize is Jesus and what he taught and yet very often what people wanted or what he highlighted was Jesus commanding evil spirits to leave or Jesus healing people of their diseases or raising a girl from the dead. But, all the while Jesus is sharing his message, unveiling his truth. He wants the message to shine.

Summary - Jesus seems to retreat to Tyre and Sidon, perhaps in hops of getting away from the crowds. But news of him is there as well and a woman appears to him requesting that an unclean spirit (demon) be removed from her daughter.

Promise: Despite our intended missions, we must be prepared for events that may temporarily take us off our intended path and approach them with the same calling that we have.

Prayer: Lord, continue to teach me from your Word. Lord, I have enjoyed getting to know Mark and his approach to you and your message of salvation. He shows your authority and your power and your way of forgiveness. Lord, everywhere people need to turn from sin and go towards belief in You, trusting in You completely. I pray that this happens in others, in me. I want to know you. And want to make you known.

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 6:30-34 - 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 6:5-6 - The Obstacle of Unbelief

Mark 6:5-6 ⁵ And He could do no miracle there except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. ⁶ And He wondered at their unbelief. And He was going around the villages teaching.

Message: The Obstacle of 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 - 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. If there was the thought maybe that his own people, in his own hometown would accept him, that was immediately not seen. Instead they took offense of him. Too often we want to see something like us, not different. And Jesus experienced this reception from his hometown people as well.

In these 2 verses I see that because of the response that Jesus experienced in Nazareth, a small community of a few hundred people, He could no do miracle except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He wondered a their unbelief. Unbelief in Christ's hometown of Nazareth kept Jesus from doing all that he could.

This is a stark message in our day. Last night my wife and I watched a special on Billy Graham after his death about 10 days ago. It was a wonderful special that chronicled his life and the incredible work of the gospel message in people's lives. Crusades were occurring frequently across the nation. There was a huge response. Sometimes the message was welcome and sometimes it wasn't. It saddens me today because the message isn't being circulated in the same way today. And it would seem conversions are not occurring at the same rate. As such there is more questioning going on today.

Unbelief only stifled the work of Jesus in that healing people and curing people of sickness was a testimony of the work of God. Many lives were changed because of it. But, people with hardened hearts are not going to change even when miracles are done so the miracles lose their significance and purpose. It does not say that Jesus ceased to work, as he did lay His hands on a few sick people and healed them. He continued to work, but perhaps not to the extent that He would have preferred.

My nephew and his wife had a baby this past Wednesday. Saturday morning we learned that the baby had long QT syndrome effecting the heart. Immediately God's people were alerted and began to pray. On Sunday afternoon, it was announced that an EKG was done and it showed no signs of the long QT syndrome. God had healed this baby. God heals. Praise God.

While healing was not present He was going around the villages teaching. He continued to teach. His words were not hindered. This is what Billy Graham always did, not ever hinder his words. The responses were different in different places, but his message was always clear and consistent. Jesus started this trend.

Summary: 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 Good News. The reception may be different but our mission does not change.

Promise: There is an obstacle of unbelief present at times in our world and land. God is still sovereign though and we pray and remain confident in His Work.

Prayer: O Lord, how majestic is your name in all of the earth. Lord, I need your power to continue to preach your message even when the response is not great. Help me to stay consistent and wait for you to work as you wish. My confidence remains in You at all times. I will continue to praise your name.

Mark 5:40b-43 - Jesus Raises Jairus' Daughter

Mark 5:40b-43
40 He took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this,and told them to give her something to eat.

Message: Jesus Raises Jairus' Daughter

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: 

Jesus performs a healing, not before a large crowd, but just for a select few. He has pulled in 3 of his disciples for this moment, not the entire crowd and he ends this healing by saying to not tell anyone. Perhaps he knew that this was a miracle that if many got wind of it, he would be possibly arrested for this fanatical healing. He was in Capernaum where he would reside for most of his time, but his time was still just starting.

Many had been laughing at him that he had even got to the house, wondering why a man would even enter a place when the daughter had died and wailers had begun. But, Jesus remarked to them to not fear, only believe. He pulls the father and mother and his disciples into his inner circle. His purpose seems to be to minister to three people - father, mother, daughter - and then also his disciples will witness this event. Mark recounts the exact words Jesus spoke, in Aramaic - “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). Aramaic was the common language spoken in that area by the Jews. Mark writes this in Greek, which means he is speaking predominantly to a Gentile population. Thus, the reason he provides the translation of these Aramaic words he has spoken. 

When Jesus speaks, action or response happens immediately. There is no delay. There is no waiting. We witness the power of the spoken word. Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). Jesus is one of action. There was no touching, just words spoken and the girl rose. It mirrors the words spoken of God at creation. He speaks and it happens; creation occurs. There is something clearly very different about Jesus. He has a unique authority that the scribes even see. He has forgiven sin. And so far, like this, he does things that only God can do. He has a power like no one else.

At this they were completely astonished.  People are often surprised by his works. It is said that Jesus is either a Liar, Lunatic, or Lord. It seems like in our day Jesus is often thought to be a Liar or Lunatic by the way people respond to not just him, but his followers. People have bee trained in our day and age in the ways of Peter who wanted to see the nail-scarred hands: if I can't see it, I won't believe it. Despite the fact that the Gospels themselves provide us eyewitness accounts, people still do not believe. Even for this healing, Jesus could have included the crowd, but he didn't. He brought witnesses. That's all that was needed. It's almost like, if people can't believe by a witness, then they won't ever believe.

He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this. As Benson remarked in his commentary - "That he might avoid every appearance of vain-glory, might prevent too great a concourse of people, and might not further enrage the scribes and Pharisees against him; the time for his death, and for the full manifestation of his glory, not being yet come."

Promise: From Tabletalk: There is no “secret method” for growing the church and seeing people believe in Christ; rather, the faithful preaching and teaching of the Word of God is what the Lord uses to build His church.

Prayer: Lord, you know my desire in reading and studying through this Gospel of Mark is to put myself in the shoes of those that were witnessing you for the first time and honestly see what sort of reaction they were having. I am often trained by other people and I want to be trained by Your Spirit and what you have spoken to me. People often dismiss you and it saddens me because your Word is clear of who you are. I continue to ask that you would draw people to yourself and people would see you for who you really are and believe. Thank you for this message. Thank you for working the way You do. Thank you for healing and providing us witnesses to your message. I believe in the words of those witnesses. I can have confidence in this. Thank You Jesus.