In our reading and studying the gospel of Mark we are coming to some very difficult passages. Last week was one’s hardness of heart regarding relationships as noted in how one thinks and lives in marital relationships in particular, divorce. This week looks at Mark 10:17-31 and the rich man regarding the use of wealth. This comes on the heels of Jesus speaking about the hardness of our hearts. Then on 25 July we will look at the text from Mark concluding chapter 10 on wisdom and blind trust.
These readings lead us up to 1 August and Mark 11:1-11 when we will revisit Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. In preparation for the following Sundays and in anticipation of Jesus’ triumphal entry I invite you to join with me in taking a more macro view of the gospel of Mark the next few weeks. Here is what I am going to do as a part of our study and journey through Mark:
1) Weekly read through the gospel of Mark.
There are a couple of key scripture passages that frame our reading of Mark:
- Mark 1:1 “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.”
- Mark 1:14-15 “Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.’”
- Mark 16:6-7 “…Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”
2) Reflect upon the following questions:
- What do I observe is taking place with Jesus and His disciples in the gospel?
- What do I observe is taking place with Jesus and the crowds in the gospel?
- What do I observe is taking place with Jesus and the religious leaders in the gospel?
- What is the fulfillment of time, the kingdom of God, repentance and believing in the gospel?
Let us see and hear where the Lord is leading us through the power of the Holy Spirit.
In Christ,
Pastor Tim